By Kwame Bediako
Several members of Ghana’s 2009 Black Satellites World Cup-winning team have chosen to forgo their matured investment payouts due to concerns regarding the transparency of the accounting process.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) recently announced that SAS Finance Group had invited all 21 players from the victorious squad to claim their matured investments, originally valued at GHS 10,000 each. Over the span of 15 years, these investments have reportedly grown to GHS 70,000 per player, including GHS 60,000 in accrued interest.
While some players have accepted their payouts, a notable faction is demanding further clarification on how their investments were managed. Emmanuel Agyemang Badu, a key player from the squad, expressed his concerns during an interview with Angel TV. He revealed that after visiting the SAS office for explanations, he decided to consult with his entourage before proceeding with any financial decisions.
“I went there (SAS office) for an explanation. We had a fruitful conversation and I had to inform my entourage to get the necessary advice”; he said.
Team captain Andre Ayew has also joined the ranks of those withholding their payments. He has authorized Fiifi Tackie to act on his behalf, refusing to collect his funds until satisfactory answers regarding the investment management are provided. Badu confirmed this arrangement, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature of the investments and the interest rates applied at the time of the initial deposit.
“I can confirm that Andre Ayew has given Fiifi Tackie a power of attorney not to go for his money. I can also halt mine then we ask the necessary questions. When I went there, I asked them the kind of investment they did for us and I also asked them about the interest rate at the time the investment was being done”; Agyemang Badu mentioned.
The GFA had invested a total of GHS 210,000 for the 21 players, with the intention of securing their financial futures following their historic World Cup triumph. However, the current situation raises questions about the management of these funds and the accountability of the financial institutions involved. The players’ decision to delay their payouts highlights their commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in the handling of their investments.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the GFA and SAS Finance Group will address the players’ concerns. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications not only for the players involved but also for the integrity of financial management practices within sports organizations in Ghana.
