Vincent Ekow Assafuah declines President Mahama’s World Cup visa probe invite

Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo and Ranking Member of the Youth and Sports Committee, has officially declined an invitation from President John Mahama to participate in a committee investigating alleged visa acquisition fraud for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Assafuah cited serious concerns regarding the independence and transparency of the presidential committee, arguing that the probe into the suspected irregularities lacks the necessary credibility to satisfy public interest.

In explaining his decision, the Old Tafo MP emphasized that an investigation of this nature requires an independent commission of inquiry rather than a committee established directly by the presidency. He pointed to a lack of clear information regarding the committee’s specific terms of reference, its full membership, and the procedures it intends to follow. According to Assafuah, the current setup fails to ensure the level of openness and accountability required to uncover the truth behind the alleged visa scandal.

The refusal comes amid broader criticism from the Minority in Parliament regarding the management of World Cup-related activities. Assafuah and his colleagues are calling for a comprehensive audit of the World Cup Bonanza Raffle, which reportedly promised 220 winners fully funded trips to the tournament but was subsequently canceled. The Minority is demanding transparency regarding the identity of raffle operators, the use of public funds for match tickets, and whether any refunds have been issued to participants who contributed money.

The situation has sparked a heated exchange between the legislative and executive branches. Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has publicly dismissed the allegations, labeling Assafuah’s claims of extortion as false. As the impasse continues, the Minority maintains that only an independent probe can address what they describe as a visa and fundraising scandal. The development marks a significant point of friction in the oversight of the nation's sporting sector under the current administration.