The Disability Sports Fraternity has petitioned the National Security Minister, expressing deep disappointment and concern over the exploitation of persons with disabilities for visa acquisition. This unethical practice, allegedly involving the president of the National Paralympic Committee, Samson Deen compromises the dignity and security of individuals with disabilities.
The fraternity claims that unknown individuals are being gathered to form teams, soliciting visas under the pretense of sports representation, only to facilitate travel for financial gains. This visa racketeering not only tarnishes Ghana’s reputation but also poses a serious national security threat.
A petition which was presented to the security ministry on Wednesday, 6th November, 2024 witnessed a highly patronized demonstration with petitioners displaying placards with inscriptions such as “Para Sports Is not Travel & Tour”, “Disability is not your family’s Gold mine”, “Stop Abusing the PWD’s”, “NPC is Visa Racketeering”, “NPC is not for Wicked and Ignorant people”, “NPC is All Visa Connection” among others.
The petitioners, comprising elite professionals who have contributed to Ghana’s global recognition in disability sports, condemn the lack of accountability and probe into these allegations within the NPC. Despite repeated attempts to address this issue over the past five years, their concerns have fallen on deaf ears.
The fraternity highlights specific incidents, including the Norwegian Visa saga and the ongoing Colombian Embassy visa issues, where unknown sports professionals pretended to participate in events Ghana was not involved in. These incidents demonstrate the persistent nature of this problem.
The petitioners urge the National Security Department to demonstrate equal importance to security threats in sports and commit resources to stop visa merchandising. They request investigations and prosecution of masterminders and implementation of measures to end this national shame.
The Disability Sports Fraternity seeks protection from exploitation and recognition of their contributions to Ghana’s sports landscape. They call on the National Security Minister to take swift action, ensuring the dignity and security of persons with disabilities are safeguarded.