Ghanaian sports journalists have obtained a police permit to stage a nationwide demonstration against the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Sports Ministry.
Ghana’s disappointing performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has triggered these personalities.
The Black Stars’ campaign at AFCON 2023 ended prematurely after a series of lackluster performances, including a crucial defeat to Cape Verde in the opening match. Despite initial leads in subsequent games against Egypt and Mozambique, defensive lapses led to crucial equalizers, ultimately resulting in Ghana’s untimely elimination with only two points.
Notable figures among the journalists spearheading this demonstration include Saddick Adams, widely known as ‘Sports Obama’. Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly referred to as ‘Countryman Songo’ alongside Veronica Commey are all involved. Nana Yaw Kesse, Odiahenkan, and others have also rallied behind the cause.
The planned demonstration, scheduled for February 14, 2024, aims to hold accountable the authorities. The GFA and the Sports Ministry are being queried for the disappointing performance of the national teams in recent tournaments.
The journalists assert that urgent measures need to be taken to ensure improved performances in major competitions.
🚨💣🇬🇭 Saddick Adams, Countryman Songo, Veronica Commey, Nana Yaw Kesse, Odiahenkan Kwame Yaw & Others secure police permits to demonstrate against GFA and Sports Ministry.
The nationwide demonstration will be held on 14th February. pic.twitter.com/8mUUJ85Cqx
— Listowel Mensah (@Listo_Mens) January 31, 2024
In addition to their demand for accountability, the journalists are calling for the immediate dissolution of the Committee set up by the GFA to appoint a new coach. They argue that the decision to form a new coaching team is premature and that a comprehensive assessment should be conducted in the aftermath of the team’s dismal showing.
My stance on this subject is unchanged since 2010.
I do not support the unsustainable monetization of the Black Stars as against development and long term planning. I do not believe in this approach. Not today, not tomorrow pic.twitter.com/w17QwmOuvG
— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) January 31, 2024
Ghanaians, football enthusiasts, and concerned citizens are expected to join the demonstration in solidarity with the sports journalists. The collective advocacy is for positive changes within the Ghanaian football landscape according to them
The protest is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding the nation’s football administration and performance on the international stage.