James Tamakloe, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Officer for Tema West, has called for truth and transparency in investigations into the alleged visa scandal surrounding Ghana’s arrangements for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on Plan B FM’s Nkosuonsem, hosted by Obidehyie Kofi Sekyi, Mr Tamakloe stressed the need for accountability, insisting that “truth is strength” as questions continue to emerge over the arrangements and the National Sports Authority (NSA) Board.
He said investigations into the controversy were ongoing and declined to disclose further details, but maintained that concerns raised by members of the public, particularly Minority leaders in Parliament, deserved serious attention.
Mr Tamakloe referred to claims attributed to the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Sports Committee, Hon. Ekow Asafuah, and other individuals regarding emails allegedly discovered in connection with the NSA Board.
According to him, one of the emails reportedly sent to the United States Embassy introduced purported members of the NSA Board in connection with 50 slots for individuals expected to travel to the United States for a sporting event.
He further alleged that the board secretary named in the correspondence was not the person recognised by President John Dramani Mahama. He also questioned the authenticity of some portfolios attributed to the purported board members, claiming that certain positions did not exist.
Mr Tamakloe alleged that the individuals involved were rejected by the US Embassy over concerns about the documents submitted. These claims, however, have not been independently verified based on the information available.
He also questioned the governance and management of the arrangements, arguing that Ghana’s failure to qualify for the preliminary stage of the competition raised concerns about the handling of the process.
On the inclusion of journalists in the proposed travel arrangements, Mr Tamakloe said the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) had indicated that only two of the 50 names submitted were fake.
However, he maintained that investigations had reportedly raised questions about the legal eligibility of individuals who travelled to the United States.
The controversy has sparked concerns about the identification and appointment of NSA Board members, the authenticity of documents allegedly submitted to the US Embassy, and the transparency of the arrangements for the trip.
Mr Tamakloe’s comments come amid calls for the relevant authorities to provide clarity on the allegations and establish the facts surrounding the controversy.
Further information from the NSA, the GTA, and other relevant authorities will be crucial in determining the circumstances surrounding the arrangements and addressing the concerns raised.
By: Kyei Pearl Ama Saah
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