Wonder Mandel, an aide to Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams, addressed the public. He assured that the Ministry will not protect anyone involved in allegations about Ghana’s visa facilitation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At a press conference, Mandel stated that anyone guilty of misconduct would be held accountable.
“The Ministry has no intention of shielding anybody,” he emphasized. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is already investigating these allegations. The Ministry pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigations.
Mandel noted that the allegations involve the National Sports Authority (NSA), Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Tribe Culture Fest, and individuals accused of collecting money from prospective travelers. “If any public official or private organization misrepresented applicants or abused their office, they must answer for it,” he said.
The press conference aimed to address misinformation and inconsistencies regarding the visa facilitation issue. Mandel explained that although they usually wait for CID investigations to conclude before commenting, they chose to engage with the media now. They presented documentary evidence to clarify public debate.
Mandel challenged claims made by MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah. He insisted some allegations against the Ministry needed correction using primary documents. He warned against circulating inaccurate dates and unverified claims as facts.
However, Mandel stressed that responding to these allegations should not be seen as influencing public opinion. Instead, he wanted journalists to examine available documents and draw their own conclusions. “We are not here to convince you,” he added, “but we want you to see the truth.”
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