Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku has issued a stern warning to match commissioners, stating that those who fail to meet expectations will be let go.
This warning comes amid intense scrutiny of the Ghana FA’s handling of safety measures at match centres, following the tragic death of Asante Kotoko fan Francis Frimpong Pooley.
Pooley’s death occurred during a match between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman in Week 19 of Ghana’s top-flight league. The incident led to the suspension of the division, prompting the Ghana FA to meet with 18 Premier League clubs to discuss measures to prevent such incidents.
During an engagement with matchday officials as part of their training to enhance matchday safety and security protocols on Tuesday, Kurt emphasised the need for honesty and fairness in assessing match commissioners’ performance. He acknowledged that the current state of affairs is unacceptable and that immediate action is necessary to address the issues.
“We’ll be very, very fair in assessing your work; Be honest,” Kurt said during the engagement. Those who fall below the line, unfortunately, will leave us. When you hear the discourse in the public space, you would admit that all is not well. And if it is that we have the opportunity to cure what is seen not to be well, this is the most opportune time,” he said.
In a related news, Kotoko have decided not to resume football activities until justice is served for Pooley’s death. The club’s first team will resume training on Wednesday, February 19, but they remain committed to their decision. Brimah, the person responsible for Pooley’s death, is currently on the run.
Meanwhile, Brimah has been identified as the prime suspect in Pooley’s tragic killing, and authorities are actively seeking him.
