Accra:President John Dramani Mahama's tenure was marked by controversies related to the country's participation in FIFA World Cup events. Notably, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, a significant incident occurred when physical cash was flown to the country amidst a dispute over unpaid appearance fees, causing tensions among players in the team's camp. The government acknowledged these issues and promised improvements in the management of the team's affairs for future tournaments.
According to Ghana Web, another controversy has arisen under Kofi Adams, the current Minister of Sports and Recreation, involving allegations of visa fraud. This controversy centers on individuals allegedly paying for visa facilitation related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with questions raised over the amounts charged and the verification of lists submitted to foreign embassies.
The 2014 World Cup incident resulted in intense scrutiny on then Minister of Youth and Sports, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, after players threatened to boycott training over unpaid fees. In response, the government arranged for over US$3 million in cash to be flown to Brazil, a decision that was later examined by the Justice Dzamefe Commission of Inquiry. This led to Afriyie Ankrah's reassignment from the Sports Ministry and changes in other government positions following Ghana's elimination at the group stage.
In the current controversy, the Minority in Parliament has called for the removal of Adams and the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, pending investigations. President Mahama has asked the NSA Director-General, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, to step aside while police investigate the allegations. Adams has denied any wrongdoing, stating that the ministry only forwarded requests through established administrative channels without guaranteeing visa approval for applicants.