By The Minority has leveled accusations against the Government, alleging breaches of the Public Financial Management Act and public procurement laws concerning the organization of the recently concluded African Games.
Wisdom Kobina Woyome, Minority Spokesperson on Youth and Sports, stated that government officials failed to uphold the principle of value for money, instead using the games for personal enrichment.
Speaking to JoyNews on March 26, Mr. Woyome highlighted that Morocco spent €46 million to host the 12th edition of the African Games, while the Democratic Republic of Congo spent $60 million to host the 11th edition.
He pointed out that, despite spending less money, these countries had been able to build modern stadiums, game villages, and sports complexes.
“The just-ended games were a monumental disaster and total embarrassment to our dear country. The Akufo-Addo and Bawumia NPP government spent a staggering $240 million on the just-ended games yet the organisation and management of the event were poor and shambolic.”
“While the government sacrificed value for money, principles and breached procurement procedures, infringed on the public financial management act leading to huge expenditure, Ghanaians have been swayed by the frivolous outcomes of the games to believe all is well,” he said.
Mr. Woyome pointed out that certain participants had to use their personal kits and equipment, resulting in some wearing unsuitable attire for the games.
He also mentioned that some athletes were transported to the event venue in the cargo area of an old pick-up truck.
“Ghanaians deserve to know how the money that was allocated for transportation and other game logistics was spent. No Ghanaian athlete deserves such degrading treatment. In addition, our national cyclist, Champion Michael had to rely on his own personal bicycle which unfortunately broke down in the middle of the cycling competition. He had no choice but to withdraw from the race.”
“The Government, the National Sports Authority, the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the local organising committee made no effort to provide an immediate alternative or intervention, to get him another bicycle. What happened to all the money voted for logistics and equipment? Where is the money?”
