NPP demands Sports Minister's resignation over visa irregularities

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially called for the immediate resignation of the Minister for Youth and Sports, citing significant irregularities related to Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At a press conference, NPP National Youth Organiser Abanga Fuseini Yakubu highlighted a growing visa controversy and questionable financial dealings as the primary drivers for the demand. The opposition party maintains that the current administration's handling of sports logistics has compromised the nation's integrity on the international stage.

The calls for the minister's departure follow a series of troubling developments within the sports sector, including the recent resignation of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Sports Authority (NSA). Allegations have surfaced regarding discrepancies in the lists of personnel submitted to various foreign embassies for visa processing. Mr. Yakubu pointed to these inconsistencies and alleged "questionable payments" as evidence of systemic failure and a lack of transparency within the ministry's operations during the World Cup preparation phases.

The Minority in Parliament has joined the chorus of voices demanding accountability, intensifying the pressure on the government to address the brewing scandal. Lawmakers have expressed concern that these administrative lapses could affect the national team's focus and the country's reputation with international sporting bodies. As of the time of the announcement, the Minister for Youth and Sports had not issued a formal response to the NPP's resignation demand or the specific allegations of misconduct.