By KPD News Online | October 8, 2026

The parliamentary Minority has intensified pressure over Ghana’s controversial visa arrangements for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling for the removal of Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams and Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) Chief Executive Officer Maame Afua Houadjeto.

The demand was made by the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, during a press conference in Parliament on Wednesday.

The Minority argues that the controversy goes beyond the suspension of National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, who was asked to step aside while investigations continue into the visa arrangements.

At the centre of the controversy is an estimated US$623,000 visa facilitation payment connected to arrangements for Ghanaian supporters and officials travelling to the United States for the World Cup.

Questions over names submitted to embassies

According to the Minority, some people who were allegedly not employees or officials of relevant state institutions were presented as being connected to those institutions during the visa process.

Assafuah further alleged that cover letters were prepared to facilitate visa applications by presenting outsiders as Ministry of Sports personnel.

The Minority says investigators should establish who authorised the documents, how the lists were compiled and whether proper procedures were followed.

The GTA has also come under scrutiny. The Minority claims that a list of 50 people described as media personnel was submitted to the United States Embassy, but that verification allegedly identified only two as media practitioners. These claims have been reported as allegations by the Minority and have not, by themselves, established criminal wrongdoing.

Minority wants investigation extended

Assafuah said the investigation should not stop with the former NSA boss, arguing that all officials and institutions whose actions may have contributed to the controversy must be examined.

The Minority is therefore calling for the Sports Minister and GTA CEO to be removed from office while investigations proceed, and for prosecution where investigators establish evidence of criminal conduct.

The allegations also involve questions about payments reportedly ranging from several thousand dollars to individuals seeking access to the World Cup visa arrangements. The Minority says investigators must determine who received money, who authorised the arrangements and whether public institutions were properly used.

No finding of guilt yet

The calls by the Minority do not constitute a finding of criminal wrongdoing against Kofi Adams, Maame Afua Houadjeto or any other official.

The appropriate authorities would have to establish the facts, determine whether administrative breaches occurred and, where necessary, decide whether there is sufficient evidence for criminal prosecution.

The controversy has nevertheless created growing pressure for a broader investigation into Ghana’s World Cup travel arrangements and the involvement of public institutions.

The Minority maintains that accountability should extend to every official found to have played a role in any improper conduct.

London, United Kingdom — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has signed a new contract with the Premier League champions, committing his future to the North London club as it looks to build on recent domestic success.

The agreement comes after a remarkable period under Arteta’s leadership, during which Arsenal reclaimed their position among England’s elite and captured the league title. Club officials described the extension as a reflection of their confidence in the Spaniard’s long-term vision and leadership.

Arteta, who took charge of Arsenal in 2019, has overseen a significant transformation both on and off the pitch. The club has developed one of the youngest and most competitive squads in Europe, combining emerging talent with experienced leadership.

Speaking after the announcement, Arteta said he remains motivated by the opportunity to help Arsenal achieve even greater success in the coming years. He emphasized the strong relationship between the coaching staff, players, supporters, and club ownership as key factors behind his decision to stay.

Arsenal executives welcomed the extension, praising the manager for restoring a winning mentality and establishing a clear footballing identity. They expressed confidence that the club can continue competing for major domestic and European honours under his guidance.

Supporters have largely reacted positively to the news, viewing the contract renewal as an important step in maintaining stability and continuity at a time when Arsenal is seeking to strengthen its position among Europe’s top clubs.

With the new agreement in place, attention now turns to the upcoming season, where Arteta will be tasked with defending Arsenal’s league crown while pursuing further success in cup competitions and on the European stage.

Former Manchester City midfielder Silva has announced his return to professional football after previously stepping away from the game, sparking excitement among fans and former teammates.

The experienced playmaker, known for his technical ability, vision, and leadership during a distinguished career, confirmed that he is ready to resume competitive action. While retirement had appeared to mark the end of his playing days, Silva said his passion for football and desire to compete convinced him to return.

Silva enjoyed significant success during his time at Manchester City, helping the club secure multiple domestic trophies and establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most influential midfielders. His performances earned admiration from supporters across Europe and cemented his reputation as one of his generation’s finest creative players.

Football analysts say the decision reflects a growing trend of veteran players extending their careers through improved fitness regimes and modern sports science. Although questions remain about where Silva will continue his playing career, many believe his experience and technical quality could still make a valuable impact.

Supporters have welcomed the announcement on social media, with many expressing excitement at the prospect of seeing the former City star back on the field. Club officials and former colleagues have also offered messages of support as Silva prepares for his return.

Further details regarding his next destination and competitive plans are expected in the coming weeks.

Arsenal are reportedly nearing an agreement with midfielder Declan Rice over a new long-term contract, a move that would reinforce the club’s commitment to one of its most influential players.

Since arriving from West Ham United, Rice has established himself as a central figure in Mikel Arteta’s side, becoming a key contributor both defensively and offensively. His performances have earned widespread praise from supporters and pundits, while his leadership qualities have further strengthened his importance within the squad.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that discussions between the player’s representatives and the club have progressed positively in recent weeks. While an official announcement has yet to be made, there is growing confidence that a deal could be finalized in the near future.

Securing Rice’s future would represent another significant step in Arsenal’s long-term planning. The club has focused on retaining its core group of players as it continues to compete for major domestic and European honours.

The England international remains under contract, but Arsenal are keen to reward his impact and ensure that one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders remains at the Emirates Stadium for years to come.

Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is expected to return to the Etihad Stadium next week to watch his former club face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League.

The match, scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, will be Guardiola’s first reported visit to the stadium since he stepped down at the end of last season after a decade in charge. Manchester City’s official fixture information confirms the PSG game is set for an 8:00pm UK kick-off.

Guardiola’s appearance is likely to attract significant attention because City are facing a difficult period off the pitch. An independent commission recently found the club guilty of a majority of the financial-rule charges brought by the Premier League. Manchester City has denied wrongdoing and has appealed the findings.

The former manager has already publicly expressed his support for the club, saying he remains loyal to City’s owners, executives, players and supporters. His expected return to the Etihad would therefore represent another public show of solidarity.

Guardiola left City after an extraordinary ten-year spell during which he became the club’s most successful manager, winning 20 major trophies according to Manchester City, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League. He has since remained connected to the City Football Group as a global ambassador.

The PSG fixture will also be an important test for the current City side under manager Enzo Maresca. The match comes as the club attempts to maintain its competitive focus while the appeal against the financial ruling continues.