Kofi Adams rejects dismissal calls over World Cup visa scandal

Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams has dismissed calls from the Minority in Parliament for his resignation or dismissal following allegations of a visa scandal related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The controversy stems from reports that approximately 90 individuals paid significant sums, ranging between $10,000 and $15,000 each, to intermediaries for visa assistance. Despite these high payments, only five of the applicants were successful in obtaining visas for the tournament. The Minority is demanding the removal and prosecution of both Adams and the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto.

Adams maintained that there is "no justification" for his removal, asserting that his ministry was not involved in the visa arrangements, which were primarily managed by the US Embassy and third-party organizations. He stated that he only became aware of the irregularities following a letter from the American Embassy dated May 19. The Minister emphasized that no government funds were lost or at risk, as the transactions occurred between private individuals and external entities. He estimated the total amount involved in the alleged scheme to be approximately $623,000.

In response to the scandal, President John Mahama has directed National Security and the Ghana Police Service to conduct a full investigation into the matter. As part of the initial fallout, the Director-General of the National Service Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has been directed to step aside to facilitate the probe. While Adams has accused the group TRIBE Culture Fest of defrauding applicants, the organization’s CEO, Nana Boateng Gyimah, has denied these claims, insisting their dealings were conducted solely through official government agencies.

Kofi Adams further noted that many of the affected individuals ignored prior warnings against paying unauthorized intermediaries for US and Canadian visas. He urged the public to rely on registered travel companies and official channels for future international sporting events to avoid falling victim to similar misrepresentations. Those who were unable to travel despite paying for visa assistance are reportedly eligible for refunds as the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) continues its inquiry into the financial activities of the involved third-party groups.