By Von Cofie
President of the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), Mr. Abraham Kotei Neequaye has promised all boxing stakeholders that there will be clean, free and fair elections on July 12 in Accra.
Speaking to Yours Truly in an exclusive chat at his office on Wednesday evening, he said no contestant should be afraid because the essence of the Congress is about accountability and he is going to make sure he renders the accounts of the Ghana Boxing Authority on the Congress day.
According to him, the GBA has not got enough funds to hold an Extra Ordinary Congress and another congress for elections, so everything will be done on the same day.
“I have nothing to hide and I know I have done much for Ghana Boxing and I am not afraid of my competitors, I am a politician and I know what it takes to win or lose elections so I know what is right” he expressed.
He assured that no contestant will be disqualified, so that he will be blamed.
“I want everyone to contest, I know I am very popular and will win hands down, people are making me popular by saying negative things, but that is politics and I love what is going on” he stated.
He hinted doing many good things for Ghana Boxing like the Boxing League which boxers and clubs have benefitted brand new cars, insurance for boxers, renovation of the GBA office, transparency and accountability in the game and administration and making the sport attractive, though as humans there may be some one or two mistakes or problems with security and crowd violence which he always preach against.
He thanked the media for coming out with whatever happens, as there is nothing to hide from stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the GBA has issued a rejoinder on a statement by a Committee for Professional Boxing Stakeholders (CPBS).
The GBA President said their attention has been drawn to a publication with regards to a purported boycott of the upcoming congress and elections.
“The information provided is based on a publication on the airwaves from the Committee for Professional Boxing Stakeholders (CPBS) and may not reflect the views of all stakeholders or the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA).
The Ghana Boxing Authority acknowledges the concerns raised by the CPBS regarding the elective congress date and demands for accountability. We appreciate the stakeholders’ passion for the sport’s development”.
He noted that the GBA remains committed to its obligations and is open to discussions with stakeholders.
“However, the date for the congress and elections, July 12, 2025, stands unless otherwise decided through due process” he emphasised.
The GBA President said they will invite CPBS representatives to engage in constructive dialogue to address concerns and work towards the sport’s growth.
He assured that the GBA is committed to transparency and accountability. “We will consider the stakeholders’ demands and explore ways to ensure the elective congress is conducted fairly and in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the GBA”.
By Sammy Heywood Okine
