Former National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has spoken out after his suspension by President John Dramani Mahama on October 1. The suspension follows allegations of Ampofo Ankrah's involvement in a visa facilitation arrangement linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to reports, about $623,000 was received from prospective travelers seeking assistance with visa applications and travel arrangements for the World Cup. Ampofo Ankrah expressed disappointment at not being given an opportunity to fully explain his side of the matter.
In an interview with JoySports, Ampofo Ankrah stated that he remains calm despite the suspension. He emphasized that he is not one to rant and rage, but is disappointed that he hasn't been heard. Ampofo Ankrah claimed that his attention before his suspension had been focused on preparing the Accra Sports Stadium and other facilities under the NSA for upcoming national assignments. The Accra Sports Stadium is among the key venues being prepared for national team activities, including matches involving the Black Stars.
The controversy surrounding the visa facilitation arrangement has prompted calls for investigations into the matter. Ampofo Ankrah's suspension comes as scrutiny intensifies over the handling of World Cup-related visa and travel arrangements. Following his removal, Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong was appointed Acting Director-General of the NSA. The development has sparked widespread debate about the governance of sports in Ghana.
Ampofo Ankrah's focus on preparing facilities for national team activities had been a key priority for the NSA. He revealed that he had been working to get the Accra Sports Stadium and other areas around the National Sports Authority ready for the Black Stars and other national assignments. The suspension has raised questions about the impact on the NSA's operations and the country's sports sector.
The allegations against Ampofo Ankrah have sparked concerns about corruption in the sports sector. The President's decision to suspend him has been seen as a move to address the concerns and ensure accountability. The investigation into the allegations is expected to shed more light on the matter and determine the extent of Ampofo Ankrah's involvement.
Ampofo Ankrah's suspension has also raised questions about the future of the NSA and its leadership. The appointment of Professor Osei Sarpong as Acting Director-General is expected to provide stability and ensure the smooth operation of the authority. The development is being closely watched by stakeholders in the sports sector.
The controversy has highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the governance of sports in Ghana. The incident has sparked a national conversation about the need for reforms in the sports sector to prevent similar incidents in the future. The outcome of the investigation is expected to have a significant impact on the country's sports landscape.
Key points
- Former NSA DG Yaw Ampofo Ankrah suspended over 2026 FIFA World Cup visa allegations
- Ampofo Ankrah expresses disappointment at not being given an opportunity to explain his side of the matter
- Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong appointed Acting Director-General of the NSA following Ampofo Ankrah's suspension
