Group calls for probe into African Games spending

Accra, Ghana - The 13th All African Games, held in March 2024, have been marred by allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement.

A petition filed by the Forum for Accountable Governance with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) seeks a comprehensive investigation into the $245 million spent on the games.

The petition raises concerns about transparency, accountability, and value for money, as well as potential breaches in procurement procedures and conflicts of interest.

After submitting the petition, Mr. Kwabena Danso, the convener voiced confidence in the OSP’s ability to carry out an impartial and thorough investigation into the matters raised.

“To the extent that I told you I have so much confidence in the Office of the Special Prosecutor, we’re all law-abiding citizens and so, if investigations are conducted and properly so done and the outcome is that there are no corruption-related matters inherent in the organisation of the All African Games.

“I think the matter would have been brought to bed. And so, I would not further query or ask questions about it. At least, my conscience will be satisfied that I have done the Lord’s duty for the good people of this country," he stated.

The petition filed by the Forum for Accountable Governance follows revelations made by the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) on Monday, August 19, 2024 that they did not receive $3 million for its coverage of the games, as claimed by Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif.

GBC Director-General Prof. Amin Alhassan clarified that the broadcaster received only $105,000 to support its coverage.

The controversy has sparked calls for a thorough investigation into the financial dealings surrounding the games.

Source : Lead News Online