The Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago (GNC) wishes to address the allegations published by SankofaOnline regarding the Ghana jersey project and the claim of an “unauthorized withdrawal” of $3,500 from the Council’s treasury.
The article presents an incomplete and misleading account of the events surrounding the project. In the interest of transparency and to set the record straight, we wish to clarify the following facts:
- The Project Was Not Concealed
At every stage of the jersey initiative, the appropriate organs of the Council were informed. The project was discussed, updates were provided, and the Council was kept aware of the progress and challenges encountered. It is therefore inaccurate to suggest that the initiative was undertaken secretly or without the knowledge of the organization.
- Community Members Paid in Advance
The jersey project was driven by strong community interest. Numerous members of the Ghanaian community placed orders and made advance payments for their jerseys before delivery. These advance payments formed part of the project’s expected cash flow and demonstrated the community’s confidence in the initiative.
- Council Authorization for World Cup Activities
The Council authorized funds to support activities associated with the World Cup watch events, including the procurement of jerseys that were intended to promote community participation and generate revenue for the Council. The characterization of the transaction as an unauthorized withdrawal is therefore inaccurate and does not reflect the Council’s decisions.
- Vendor Payments Were Based on Project Cash Flow
As with many community projects, payments to the supplier were structured around anticipated project cash inflows. This was a practical financial arrangement based on advance orders and expected proceeds from jersey sales. There was no intent to misuse Council funds or divert resources for personal benefit.
- Shipment Details
The shipment consisted of three boxes containing a total of 127 jerseys: Box One: 40 jerseys; Box Two: 40 jerseys; Box Three: 27 jerseys; 4th through a person (20 pieces)
- Customs Challenges
Unfortunately, only the box containing 27 jerseys and the one through a person coming from Ghana successfully cleared customs. The remaining two boxes, containing 40 jerseys each, were impounded by customs authorities. This unforeseen development significantly disrupted the project timeline and affected the Council’s ability to fulfill all orders as originally planned.
- Full Disclosure to the Council
The customs issues, shipment status, financial implications, and all related developments have been communicated to the Council. The leadership has never withheld this information, and the organization has been kept informed throughout the process.
The assertion that there was an “unauthorized withdrawal” amounting to financial misconduct ignores these material facts. Equally troubling are suggestions that individuals engaged in a “private business venture” using Council resources. Such allegations are unsupported by the documented circumstances surrounding this community project.
The Ghana National Council remains committed to accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of its resources. We welcome constructive scrutiny, but responsible journalism also requires fairness, verification of facts, and the presentation of complete information before conclusions are drawn.
Read the original article: By sankofaonline and the response By Reuben Hadzide , Former President GNC
We encourage members of the community to rely on verified information and official communications from the Council rather than sensational narratives that risk undermining the unity and confidence of the Ghanaian community in Metropolitan Chicago.
Effah Ameyaw
President
Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago.
