Minority demands commission of inquiry into World Cup Visa Racketeering Scandal

Ghana's minority party in Parliament is demanding a Commission of Inquiry into alleged visa racketeering linked to preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to Kwame Bediako. The Minority claims that over $600,000 was collected from applicants seeking assistance with travel documents, with charges ranging from $7,000 to $14,000 reported. Investigations by the CID have been launched in response to these claims.

The controversy intensified following the suspension of the National Sports Authority's Director-General, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, on October 1, as the probe continues. However, the Presidency has stated that this suspension does not constitute a finding of guilt.

Ranking Minority Member Vincent Ekow Assafuah has declined an invitation to a Presidential Committee, insisting on a public, independent commission with the authority to subpoena evidence. He argues that such a commission is necessary to examine the facts transparently.

The allegations extend beyond the National Sports Authority, implicating the Sports Ministry, Ghana Tourism Authority, the National Sports Directorate (NSA), and a private entity called TRIBE Culture Fest. According to reports, 85 out of 90 individuals who were accused of paying between $10,000 and $15,000 for visas never received the visas as promised. Some were even given interview dates for events that had already concluded.