Kofi Adams denies Sports Ministry role in 2026 World Cup visa scandal

Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has firmly denied any involvement of his Ministry in a visa scandal related to Ghana's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The controversy has involved the National Sports Authority (NSA), Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and TRiBE Culture Fest. Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Ranking Member of Parliament's Committee on Sports and Recreation, made allegations against the Ministry, prompting Minister's special aide, Wonder Mandel, to respond on behalf of Adams during a media engagement on October 10.

Mandel stated the Ministry could not be held responsible for every action taken by the institutions and organisations implicated, affirming that they would not certify the actions of the NSA, GTA, or TRiBE Culture Fest. He called for a thorough examination of financial transactions associated with the allegations and insisted that any money paid and owed should be recovered. "If commissions were paid, follow the accounts. If people are owed, let the refunds be done, let us recover their money for them," Mandel added.

The Minister stressed that any responsible individuals should be held accountable, emphasizing the need for accountability based on the available evidence and conduct of those involved. The response comes amid growing scrutiny of the visa-related arrangements surrounding Ghana's involvement in 2026 World Cup-related activities, with calls for transparency and accountability over the allegations.

The Minority party is now demanding an extended investigation into other officials it accuses of playing a role in the arrangements, seeking the Sports Minister and GTA Chief Executive's removal from office and prosecution if found culpable.