Former Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has publicly rejected allegations linking him to irregularities identified in the audit report for the 13th African Games. Ussif insists he should not be held accountable for any wrongdoing detailed in the document. This report cited issues related to procurement, contract management, and various financial irregularities during Ghana’s hosting of the event.
The audit report specifically recommended sanctions and recovery actions against several former officials. These officials include Ussif, former Chief Director William Kartey, and former Local Organising Committee Chairman Dr. Kwaku Ofosu-Asare. The recommended actions stem from alleged procurement breaches and financial infractions connected to the Games, hosted in 2024.
Ghana invested significantly in the African Games, incurring GHS 2.2 billion in expenditure according to the Auditor-General. Despite this spending, the nation accumulated GHS 208 million in debt for the event. The audit revealed administrative lapses and procurement breaches totaling GHS 726 million, highlighting substantial fiscal management challenges. This situation follows a pattern of significant public expenditure on major events, often attracting scrutiny over financial accountability.
Mustapha Ussif’s statement followed widespread public discussion about the audit findings. He acknowledged his attention had been drawn to the "Comprehensive Audit Report on 13th African Games, Accra 2023." The former minister stated, "The said report, I understand, attributes various irregularities to me." He added, "I, however, deny being responsible for any such irregularities, if any at all."
Ussif expects to address the allegations when the report reaches Parliament for review. He stated that this parliamentary process would provide the necessary platform for clarification and accountability. Officials named in audit reports typically get an opportunity to respond to findings before final conclusions are drawn. This process allows for due diligence and a fair hearing.
The audit report represents the first official reaction from any principal official named in the document. Its findings have sparked intense public debate over governance standards, compliance with procurement laws, and financial transparency. The recommendations include sanctions under the Public Procurement Act and the recovery of hundreds of millions of GHS. Future parliamentary proceedings will determine the ultimate accountability and potential financial recoveries.