Yaw Ampofo Ankrah 'disappointed' after suspension as NSA Director General

Former National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah says he is disappointed by his suspension but remains calm as investigations continue into an alleged visa facilitation arrangement linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.President John Dramani Mahama suspended Ampofo Ankrah on Thursday, 1 October, following allegations surrounding the handling of visa and travel arrangements for prospective travellers to the tournament.The controversy centres on claims that about US$623,000 was received from individuals seeking assistance with visa applications and travel arrangements for the World Cup.Speaking to JoySports after his suspension, Ampofo Ankrah said he was disappointed that he had not been given an opportunity to properly explain his side of the matter.Im still calm, a bit disappointed, he said.Im not one to rant and rage. Im disappointed that Ive not been heard. It is disappointing that we havent been able to have a discussion as to exactly what the situation is.Ampofo Ankrah said that, before his suspension, his attention had been focused on preparing the Accra Sports Stadium and other NSA facilities for upcoming national assignments.He said preparations were particularly important with the Black Stars and other national teams scheduled to use the facilities.Ive been focused on preparing the facility, Accra Sports Stadium, and other areas around the National Sports Authority to get ready for the Black Stars and other national assignments, he added.His suspension comes at a time when the NSA is facing increased scrutiny over its role in preparations for Ghana's participation in the 2026 World Cup.Ampofo Ankrah has denied any wrongdoing and says he would have preferred an opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the visa arrangements before the decision was taken.Following his suspension, Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong was appointed Acting Director-General of the NSA.Professor Sarpong, an Associate Professor of Physical Education and Sports at the University of Education, Winneba, will oversee the Authority while the issues surrounding the former director-general are examined.