Former Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has denied any wrongdoing in connection with financial irregularities flagged in the 13th African Games held in Accra.
His response follows a 700-page forensic audit by the Ghana Audit Service, which identified irregularities amounting to over GHS 580 million and recommended sanctions against him and other officials involved in the organisation of the Games.
The audit report also suggests that Ussif, along with former Chief Director William Kartey and LOC Chairman Dr. Kwaku Ofosu-Asare, could be held jointly liable for the recovery of significant sums in both local and foreign currencies due to alleged cost overruns, overpayments, and weak financial controls.
In his response, Mr. Ussif firmly rejected the findings against him, stating that he does not accept responsibility for the alleged financial discrepancies and expects to be formally heard once the report is presented to Parliament.
He maintained that due process must be followed and indicated that he will fully respond to all allegations whengiven the opportunity to appear before lawmakers.
The audit findings have sparked wider public debate over procurement practices, contract management, and financial oversight during Ghana’s hosting of major international sporting events, despite the successful staging of the Games.
Key issues highlighted include inflated costs for services such as catering, accommodation, transport, equipment, and infrastructure, with contract variations accounting for a large portion of the irregular expenditures.
The development has intensified discussions about accountability in public sports administration and the need for stronger financial controls as Ghana continues to host major continental competitions. Mustapha Ussif rejects liability over GHS 580 million African Games audit findings
