By Kwame Bediako
Former Minister for Youth and Sports Mustapha Ussif has firmly denied allegations of financial wrongdoing linked to the 13th African Games in Accra, rejecting responsibility for the GHS 580,042,347.40 in irregularities flagged in a 700‑page forensic audit report released by the Ghana Audit Service.
His denial comes after the Auditor‑General recommended sanctions against him, former Chief Director William Kartey, and LOC Chairman Dr. Kwaku Ofosu‑Asare, citing widespread cost inflation, overpayments, and weak financial controls across multiple contracts for the Games.
Key points from the audit and Ussif’s response
The Auditor‑General has recommended that Ussif be held jointly liable for the recovery of GHS 579,114,352.24, plus $44,354,881.77 and €629,070, as part of addressing the identified financial shortfalls.
Ussif issued a public statement denying any responsibility for the irregularities, stating that he does not accept being held accountable for the alleged improprieties and that he expects a formal opportunity to respond once the report is presented to Parliament.
He emphasized that due process will allow those named in the audit to defend themselves, and he intends to address all claims of misconduct when summoned by Parliament.
Broader implications for Ghanaian sports governance
The audit has triggered a national debate over procurement, contract management, and financial oversight in Ghana’s hosting of major events, even as the 13th African Games were successfully staged in Accra.
Concerns focus on inflated costs for catering, accommodation, equipment, vehicle services, and infrastructure works, with contract variations and rescoping alone accounting for over GHS 467 million of the irregularities.
The situation underscores tensions between the public’s demand for accountability and officials’ assertions of due process as Ghana seeks to set higher standards for future sporting events.
