Former coach of Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak, Charles Kwablan Akonnor, has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to take urgent steps to address the recurring challenges in the Ghana Premier League.
The recently concluded 2024/25 season was marred by protests, questionable refereeing decisions, and increasing unrest among fans.
One tragic incident saw a fan lose his life at the Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre during a match between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko, underscoring the serious security lapses within the league.
In an interview with Citi Sports, Akonnor expressed disappointment over the persistent issues, describing them as harmful to the progress of Ghanaian football.
He emphasized the crucial role of integrity in developing the next generation of local players.
“It has to be better. We can do better. We’ve come a long way, you know, and if we don’t have it—dealing with other professionals—where will our next generation of players come from?” he asked.
He also condemned tactics such as deliberate time-wasting by teams in the lead, urging stricter regulation of such unsportsmanlike behaviour.
“It’s always from our local league, so we need to improve that aspect—how they delay when an opponent is leading as a tactic, a style of delaying,” he stated.
Akonnor further singled out poor officiating as a major concern that seems to persist season after season.
“Match officiating is a big problem. And I’ve heard it—what are you telling me? I’ve seen videos. Whether it’s true or not, I don’t have the evidence, but these things keep coming.”
Meanwhile, reigning Ghana Premier League champions Bibiani GoldStars are preparing to take on Medeama SC in a coronation match scheduled for Saturday, June 14, at DUN’s Park.
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