By Ghanaian soccer enthusiasts turned out in large numbers to participate in the “Revitalize Ghana Soccer” protest on Wednesday, February 14, 2024.
#PreserveGhanaSoccer: Tallies rally opposing mishandling of Ghana soccer
The march, commencing at the Obra Spot adjacent to the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, witnessed demonstrators traverse the main thoroughfares to the Black Star Square.
Guided by senior sports correspondents such as Saddick Adams (Sports Obama), Patrick Osei Agyemang (Countryman Songo), Collins Atta Poku, and Veronica Commey, the participants advocated for enhanced governance of soccer in the nation.
A priest at the #SaveGhanaFootball protest in front of the Independence Arch in Accra. Captured by Nicolas Horni.
Three protesters in front of the Independence Arch in Accra. Captured by Nicolas Horni.
Meanwhile, the women’s national teams who have been a rare shining light have also not been paid their bonuses dating back to last year.
The Black Queens have qualified for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) but are still owed bonuses, while the Black Princesses have also booked their place at the U20 FIFA World Cup but have also not been paid.
On Valentine’s Day 2024, thousands of people gathered in Accra to demonstrate against the Ghana Football Association. The demonstration was also accompanied by a huge police presence. Photos by Nicolas Horni.
These matters, among other things, are the basis for the demonstration, which seeks to compel the Ghana Football Association (GFA), the Ministry of Youth and Sports and other football stakeholders to put in place reforms to change the fortunes of the sport.
A petition presented by the conveners to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, outlined some of the key reforms needed, including developing a national football policy and instituting a commission of inquiry to probe the underperformance of the various national teams.
A priest at the #SaveGhanaFootball protest in front of the Independence Arch in Accra. Photo by Nicolas Horni.
Also, accountability over the disbursement of monies earned from tournaments like the World Cup and disbandment of management committees for national teams were top of the agenda.
Meanwhile, some of the placards seen at the protest had the messages: “Lack of vision for our football”, “No bribe before you play for our national team”, “Football brings us together, not politics” and “Competent people should lead the MOYS” (Ministry for Youth and Sports).
#SaveGhanaFootball-protest Leader Saddick Adams during the protest march on Valentine’s Day 2024. Captured by Nicolas Horni.
Others also had the messages “Kurt (Okraku) must go”, “Football is for all of us” and “Training behind closed doors, apeetor!!”
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