Former Sports Minister and current Member of Parliament for Yagaba-Kubori constituency, Mustapha Ussif, has categorically denied allegations of wrongdoing related to a ¢548 million National Service Scheme (NSS) scandal. Ussif, who served as Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), released a statement welcoming judicial scrutiny and asserting his readiness to account for his stewardship.
According to the Attorney General, the alleged scandal involves systematic fraud and the creation of thousands of ghost employees across the national service system. Ussif’s denial comes after the Attorney General’s press conference, where he detailed the scope of the alleged conspiracy.
Ussif’s statement emphasizes his commitment to public accountability, stating, “It is my fervent belief that once you hold public office, you should at all material times, and at whatever cost, be ready, willing, and able to account for your stewardship.” He has expressed confidence in his ability to withstand scrutiny, welcoming the opportunity to defend himself in court.
The case is set to test Ghana’s judicial system and the prosecution’s forensic evidence. Ussif’s categorical denial and willingness to face judicial scrutiny indicate a potentially lengthy and complex legal battle ahead. Alexander Afriyie