‘You cannot be a judge in your own cause’ – NPP MP snubs Mahama’s invitation

Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah has declined an invitation from President John Dramani Mahama to appear before a committee investigating alleged irregularities in Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup visa arrangements, insisting that the matter requires an independent and transparent inquiry.

The Ranking Member of Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has rejected an invitation to assist a committee established by President John Dramani Mahama to investigate allegations surrounding visa acquisition and fundraising arrangements linked to Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Mr Assafuah disclosed the decision at a press conference on Thursday, November 5, explaining that the invitation was conveyed through the President’s presidential advisers.

He said he had declined to participate because he questioned the committee’s independence, particularly because the investigation could involve ministers serving under the President.

“I have respectfully boycotted that invitation. I did so on principle. The President cannot be seen to be investigating his own ministers. You cannot be a judge in your own cause,” he stated.

MP questions committee’s transparency

The NPP lawmaker also criticised what he described as a lack of transparency surrounding the committee’s operations.

According to him, its terms of reference had not been made public, its membership was unknown, and its proceedings were being conducted behind closed doors.

He argued that these concerns undermined public confidence in the process and called for the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry with powers to summon witnesses, obtain evidence and publish its findings.

Mr Assafuah said he had petitioned both the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and President Mahama to establish such a commission to investigate the alleged irregularities.

Background to World Cup visa controversy

The controversy centres on allegations that more than US$600,000 was collected from individuals seeking visa and travel assistance for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Some applicants were reportedly charged between US$7,000 and US$14,000.

The allegations have prompted investigations by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). The Director-General of the National Sports Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has also been suspended pending investigations. <Cite refs={[“turn320964search0″,”turn320964search6”]}/>

Institutions deny wrongdoing

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the Ghana Tourism Authority have denied wrongdoing, maintaining that their involvement in the arrangements did not include collecting money in exchange for visa approvals.

Mr Assafuah’s refusal to appear before the presidential committee adds to pressure from the Minority for an investigation they consider independent and capable of establishing accountability.

The allegations remain under investigation, and no final findings have been announced.