Former Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has strongly denied any involvement in alleged financial or administrative irregularities cited in a newly released audit report concerning the 13th African Games hosted in Accra.
The denial follows the public release of the “Comprehensive Audit Report on the 13th African Games, Accra 2023,” which reportedly implicates the former minister in several administrative lapses.
In a swift response issued from his parliamentary office, the Member of Parliament for the Yagaba/Kubori constituency distanced himself from the findings, maintaining his innocence regarding the management of the continental sporting event.
“The said report, I understand attributes various irregularities to me,” Ussif stated in a formal press release. “I however deny being responsible for any such irregularities, if any at all.”
The 13th African Games, which took place in Ghana, have recently come under intense public scrutiny following demands for accountability regarding the expenditure and execution of the multi-sport event.
While the audit report has raised questions about governance and financial oversight during the tournament, the former minister indicated that the official processes for accountability are yet to be fully exhausted.
Ussif noted that the document is expected to undergo standard parliamentary scrutiny, which will allow implicated individuals to formally clear their names. He expressed his readiness to appear before the legislative body to address the allegations directly.
“It is my understanding that the report of the audit will be presented to Parliament and persons who may have answers to findings will be invited to respond accordingly,” Ussif noted, adding that he looks forward to the opportunity to respond to all claims of impropriety.
Parliament is expected to review the comprehensive audit findings in the coming weeks, where the former minister and other key stakeholders will be given the platform to present their formal defenses.
