The Minority in Parliament has formally demanded that Director‑General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah of the National Sports Authority (NSA) be suspended or dismissed while investigations into alleged visa‑facilitation payments are underway.
Ranking Member on the Youth and Sports Committee, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, said the accusations that the NSA collected over $600,000 from individuals seeking visas to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup are serious enough for the director to step aside during the inquiry.
JoyNews Parliamentary Correspondent Kweku Asante relayed that a petition has been sent to the Director‑General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to probe the claims that the NSA authorised the collection of the money. The NSA has denied any involvement, with Mr Ankrah issuing a statement that the authority had nothing to do with the alleged payments.
Despite some individuals being implicated, the Minority insists that the leadership of the NSA should not remain in office while the matter is investigated. “The allegations of what we describe as visa racketeering are big enough to warrant the NSA boss stepping aside,” Mr Assafuah said.
The call comes after Youth and Sports Minister Kofi Adams appeared before the committee on Thursday, September 17, where he answered questions on the visa allegations. The Minority expressed dissatisfaction with his responses and reiterated its demand for the director‑general’s removal or suspension.
As the investigation proceeds, the Minority’s stance highlights the need for accountability within the NSA and the broader sports sector ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
