Former Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Yussif, has asserted that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has an unparalleled track record in sports development.
According to the Yagaba Kubori MP, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), under former President John Mahama, will have little to showcase in sports infrastructure due to significant expenditure cuts at the Sports Ministry.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Friday, March 21, he emphasized the impact of these budgetary reductions.
“Mr Speaker, this government has cut capital expenditure at the Sports Ministry, which means the regional stadia initiated by the NPP two of which have already been commissioned will be abandoned. The hope of seeing all regions equipped with a 5,000-seater stadium will not materialize.”
He further stressed the need for proper maintenance of the National Aquatic Center, which has been certified to host international swimming competitions.
“Mr. Speaker, today, Ghana can host international swimming competitions because the Aquatic Center has been certified for international events. This is the record of President Akufo-Addo. Additionally, the University of Ghana Sports Stadium has been upgraded to meet international standards, which is why the African Athletics Championship will be hosted in Ghana next year.”
Beyond sports, Mustapha Yussif also took issue with the Finance Minister, questioning the lack of clarity on the government’s free sanitary pad initiative and its intended beneficiaries.
“Mr. Speaker, we want to know which school children will benefit from this policy. Is it girls in public or private schools? Is it for primary or secondary school students?”
His remarks come amid concerns over government priorities in sports and social intervention programs.
