By Simon Asare
Accra, Feb. 19, GNA – Mr. Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), is optimistic about a positive change in local football after the adoption of enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols.
According to the GFA President, the incident that led to the death of a football fan in Nsoatre was unfortunate and regrettable, which triggered the need to enhance matchday protocols.
Speaking to Match Commissioners at the GFA Secretariat in Accra, Mr. Okraku noted that their truthfulness and honesty in the discharge of their duties would prove crucial in improving the game.
“We’ll be very, very fair in assessing your work. Be honest. 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 could cure what is seen not to be well, this is the most opportune time.
“The clarion call from Ghanaians is that something has to change, and we have to react positively to it as a family. Hopefully, the Premier League will come back soon but this is part of the process of bringing back our beloved GPL.
“When we come back, we have to ensure that the change that our consumers are calling for will be supported by the family that has gathered here,” President Okraku said.
He also assured Match Commissioners of maximum protection in the dispensation of their duties while continuous efforts are made to educate the diverse patrons of our game.
“We occupy a special place in our sports. We play a very important role in the management of our game. The incidents that happened in Nsoatre has become a catalyst for us to re-look at how football has been delivered by all of us.
“I honestly believe that we have the power to right the wrongs in football, “Again, like I said the last time I met you, I have absolute trust in the group that we have here. I know that we can deliver football in the way it has to be delivered,” said Mr Okraku.
The GFA President urged Match Commissioners to take an active role in enforcing the safety protocols and ensuring that any potential security threats are found and addressed before, during, and after matches.
He directed them to collaborate closely with local security agencies to maintain order.
GNA