Charles Osei Asibey, the president of the Africa Armwrestling Federation has declined an appointment to serve on Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 2024 Campaign Manifesto Sub-committee on Youth and Sports.
The Vice President of Ghana included Asibey as part of the sub-committee for his election 2024 campaign.
In a statement released on Sunday, February 25, 2024, Osei Asibey explained his decision to turn down the offer, citing the importance of maintaining a neutral and apolitical stance in his current roles within the sporting community.
As the head of international sports organizations and the General Secretary of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG), Asibey highlighted the commitment to fair play and non-alignment in the global or international sports community.
The statement read, “Mr. Osei Asibey, known for his dedication to sports development and advocacy, has decided not to join the campaign sub-committee to maintain his apolitical stance. He believes it’s important to stay neutral and impartial in his current roles within the sporting community.”
Osei Asibey who doubles as the vice president of the World Armwrestling Federation, further emphasised his love and passion for the development of Ghana but noted that being affiliated with any political party could compromise his neutrality.
This comes after musician Okyeame Kwame said he wasn’t officially contacted to serve on the sub-committee for Tourism, Arts, and Culture. The move reflects a trend of individuals prioritising neutrality and avoiding political affiliations, especially in roles that involve leadership and representation within the sports and cultural sectors.
The sub-committee for Youth and Sports however includes notable names like former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan as the chair, with National Sports Authority boss Professor Peter Twumasi and Ghana Football Association Executive Council Member Gifty Oware-Mensah all included. The Minister for Youth and Sports, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, serves as the Advisor for the sub-committee.