The Sports Ministry has responded to claims of fraud in Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup visa facilitation process. The agency asserts there is no evidence that Minister Kofi Adams collected money from travelers or profited from the arrangements.
In a statement, the Ministry emphasized that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is investigating the matter. They pledged full cooperation with the investigation. The scandal involves allegations against the National Sports Authority (NSA), Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), TRIBE Culture Fest, and individuals accused of collecting money from potential travelers.
The Ministry stated that the documentary evidence contradicts claims made by MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah. They noted that on May 19, 2026, the NSA requested visa facilitation for 90 volunteers and event coordinators. The Ministry received this request on May 25 and forwarded it on May 28.
Additionally, they disputed claims linking four applicants needing further documentation in March to the later list of 90 names. According to them, these four applicants were not part of that list. They challenged Assafuah to provide an alleged letter dated March 19 sent to the Ministry.
The Ministry also highlighted that the US Embassy retains full authority over applicant vetting and visa approval processes. This controversy raises questions about reports suggesting some Ghanaians paid significant amounts for World Cup-related travel services.
The Ministry acknowledged reports of financial losses and urged affected applicants to submit receipts, bank statements, mobile money records, and messages to investigators. They plan to reconcile their World Cup visa records to determine which institutions submitted names and how applications were processed.
They have called for accountability for anyone who unlawfully collected money or provided false information. “Follow the money. Follow the documents. Follow the signatures,” declared the Ministry. The CID investigation is ongoing, and no wrongdoing has been proven yet.
Leave a Reply