Omanghana
The Chairman of Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, Ernest Norgbey, has called on politicians to allow investigators to independently examine alleged irregularities involving $623,000 in visa facilitation fees linked to Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup travel arrangements.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on October 7, 2026, Norgbey cautioned that political interference could undermine the ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). He stressed that the allegations must be tested before conclusions are drawn about those implicated.
The controversy centers on claims that applicants paid between $7,000 and $14,000 for assistance with World Cup travel. The Minority has also alleged that some individuals were assigned fictitious official positions or volunteer roles to support visa applications to the United States Embassy.
The allegations have prompted demands from the Minority for the dismissal and prosecution of the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, and the Chief Executive of the Ghana Tourism Authority.
Norgbey, however, said calls for the minister’s removal were premature while investigations remained underway. He explained that he would support such a move if evidence established that the minister’s continued presence in office could obstruct the inquiry.
President John Mahama has already directed National Sports Authority Director-General Yaw Ampofo-Ankrah to step aside amid the investigation. Norgbey noted that the NSA chief had appeared before the CID, while he was unaware of any similar invitation to the Sports Minister.
The committee chairman also disclosed that Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee was awaiting further documents and information from the minister and other agencies involved in the World Cup preparations before completing its report.
While urging restraint in public commentary, Norgbey maintained that he would not protect anyone found responsible for wrongdoing, regardless of their position or personal relationship with him. He said accountability should follow evidence established through a credible investigative process.
Source: Omanghana
