Ghana's 2026 World Cup Visa Scandal Probe Must Lead to Accountability - Ekow Assafuah

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in Ghana has initiated an investigation into alleged corruption and financial irregularities surrounding the country's 2026 FIFA World Cup sponsorship and travel arrangements. This decision follows a petition submitted by Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Ranking Member on Parliament's Sports Committee. He expressed concerns over the selection and accreditation of sponsorship beneficiaries, visa facilitation, and the management of sponsorship proceeds.

Ekow Assafuah welcomed the OSP's decision to assume jurisdiction over the matter, saying it offers a more credible avenue for an independent investigation compared to a committee established by President John Dramani Mahama. He and other representatives were invited for a four-hour engagement with the OSP, where they presented documentary evidence and provided explanations on the issues raised. This move aims to uncover the truth behind the allegations and bring those responsible to account.

The allegations in question involve contracts awarded by the National Sports Authority (NSA) to service providers, as well as concerns about the allocation of travel opportunities and the exclusion of some competition winners from the final lists submitted to foreign diplomatic missions. Ekow Assafuah urged the OSP to thoroughly examine all relevant transactions, scrutinize beneficiary lists, trace payments, and investigate how travel opportunities were allocated.

The OSP's investigation is expected to cover various aspects of Ghana's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the management of sponsorship proceeds and possible abuse of public office. Ekow Assafuah emphasized that the probe must not end with an announcement of its commencement but rather lead to concrete outcomes, including answers, accountability, and prosecution if criminal wrongdoing is established.

The Old Tafo MP stressed that the Ghanaian people deserve nothing less than a thorough and transparent investigation that addresses the concerns raised. The OSP's decision to investigate the allegations demonstrates its commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring accountability in public office. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining the next steps in addressing the alleged irregularities.

The probe into Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup sponsorship and travel arrangements has significant implications for the country's sports sector and its reputation on the international stage. A thorough investigation will help restore public trust and demonstrate Ghana's commitment to transparency and accountability. The OSP's findings and recommendations will be closely watched by stakeholders and the general public.

Ultimately, the investigation's success will depend on the OSP's ability to uncover the truth and bring those responsible to account. Ekow Assafuah's call for accountability and prosecution if criminal wrongdoing is established underscores the importance of a thorough and impartial investigation. The OSP's efforts to address the alleged irregularities will be crucial in resolving this matter and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

Key points

• The OSP's investigation into alleged corruption in Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup sponsorship and travel arrangements must lead to concrete outcomes, including answers, accountability, and prosecution if criminal wrongdoing is established.