On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, the Disability Sports Fraternity took to the streets of Accra to protest against the leadership of the National Paralympic Committee, particularly its president, Samson Deen. The demonstration began at the Accra Rehabilitation Center and concluded at the Accra Sports Stadium.
At the Ministry of Youth and Sports, leaders of the demonstration, Frederick Assor and Ken Kalai, presented a petition to Eric Mensah Bonsu, Director of Financing and Administration. Mr. Bonsu assured the demonstrators that although the minister was unavailable, he would personally hand over the petition. He also stated that the minister had initiated measures to address VISA racketeering, including notifying the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to inform the Ministry of Youth and Sports about Ghanaians traveling abroad to represent Ghana for proper scrutiny.
Following the petition submission to the Sports Ministry, the group proceeded to the Accra Sports Stadium to present it to the National Sports Authority (NSA). Jeffery Kumi received the petition on behalf of acting NSA boss Seth Panwum and assured Frederick Assor and his team that their concerns would be addressed.
The Disability Sports Fraternity, comprising elite athletes recognized globally, expressed deep disappointment in the exploitation of persons with disabilities through visa racketeering schemes ¹. The petition, addressed to the National Security Minister, highlighted unethical practices, including forming teams with unknown individuals, soliciting visas, and traveling for financial gain under the guise of sports and national representation.
Key Demands of the Petition:
- Investigation and Prosecution: Investigate and prosecute masterminds of visa racketeering crimes.
- Measures to End Visa Racketeering: Implement measures to prevent further national embarrassment and shame.
- Security Threat: Recognize visa racketeering as a national security threat.
- Timely Action: Take timely action on the issues raised.
The Disability Sports Fraternity has fought against this issue for five years, but their efforts have been met with inaction. They urge the National Security Minister to take appropriate action, considering the gravity of the issue and its impact on Ghana’s international reputation. This petition comes as Ghana has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, emphasizing the need to protect and promote the rights of people with disabilities.
