Countryman Songo Criticizes Sports Minister Over Queiroz’s Undisclosed Salary

Accra: Sports journalist Patrick Osei Agyemang, commonly known as Countryman Songo, has criticized the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, for his refusal to disclose the salary of Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz. Songo's comments come amidst growing concerns over transparency in the management of the national football team. According to Ghana Web, during an interview with Asempa FM, Minister Kofi Adams mentioned that his office is still in the process of finalizing the financial details of Queiroz's contract, even though the coach has already been awarded a four-month deal. Adams assured that the salary would not exceed $100,000, yet he refrained from providing the exact figure. Reacting to the minister's statements, Countryman Songo dismissed Adams' claims, arguing that it is essential for the salary to be agreed upon and known once a coach is hired. Songo, known for his direct style on his show "Fire for Fire" on Adom TV, expressed that withholding this information contradicts President John Dramani Mahama's commitment to ensuring transparency in national team matters. Songo emphasized President Mahama's stance on transparency, questioning the rationale behind the sports minister's reluctance to disclose the financial terms of Queiroz's contract. He argued that understanding the salary, including bonuses and other benefits, is crucial for accountability. "We are not kids. We want to know the salary for the four-month contract, including the bonus, per diem, and other details, which will be provided later," Songo insisted on Adom TV. Furthermore, Songo warned of potential negative consequences for the Black Stars at the World Cup if such issues remain unresolved. He stressed the importance of clarity and accountability to avoid possible embarrassment on the international stage. "If we want the Black Stars to succeed, we should be careful; otherwise, we will disgrace ourselves and come back," he cautioned.