The amendment was approved on Tuesday during the GFA’s 31st Ordinary Congress at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram. Out of 124 delegates present, 114 voted in favour, six opposed, and three abstained.

Speaking on Joy FM, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe described the decision as a “shameful act” and accused the association of manipulating the constitution to serve personal interests.

“What has happened today is a very shameful act by the FA. I’m deeply disturbed because it appears people can toy with a constitution and nothing will be done,” he said.

“These things are done for personal interest, and that is exactly what has happened. Legally, this amendment can be challenged on several grounds,” he added.

The change paves the way for current GFA President Kurt Okraku, who is in his second term, to potentially seek another mandate.

However, Okraku has maintained that it is too early to decide on his future.

“This is premature. We have, at the moment, almost two and a half years to serve the Ghanaian game, and when it comes to that, I will make a decision just like many people who are eligible to make a decision and contest,” he said.

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The motion, which seeks to increase the term limit for the GFA president from two to three terms, is set to be discussed at the 31st Ordinary Congress on Tuesday, August 12, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakoe cautioned against amending the presidential term limits enshrined in the GFA’s constitution. The Hearts of Oak board member described the move as dangerous, warning it could undermine the democratic reforms introduced by the FIFA-backed Normalisation Committee led by Dr. Kofi Amoah in 2019.

“The constitution strictly limits the number of terms a GFA president can serve to two — and this was introduced during the era of the current president,” he said. “He never opposed it then. Now that he is approaching the end of his second term, why is he suddenly trying to change it?”

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakoe reminded stakeholders that the current statutes emerged from crucial reforms following the fallout of the “Number 12” corruption exposé, which ended Kwesi Nyantakyi’s 13-year leadership of the GFA.

Drawing lessons from the past, he warned that Ghanaian football risked revisiting its darkest moments. “We saw what happened to Kwesi Nyantakyi, Mr. Simeon-Okraku’s predecessor. His downfall was partly due to his reluctance to relinquish power. Anyone who wants to stay in power perpetually, especially by manipulating the constitution, is a danger to the organisation and society. We’ve been here before; we must not repeat the same mistakes,” he added.

Several prominent football figures, including Kudjoe Fianoo, George Afriyie, Alhaji Grusah, Samuel Anim Addo, and Elony Amande, have already voiced their opposition to the proposed amendment.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakoe served as GFA chairman from 2004 to 2005.

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The proposed amendment, which will be tabled at the GFA’s 31st Ordinary Congress on Tuesday, August 12, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, seeks to increase the presidential term limit from two to three.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe warned that disregarding history could prove costly.

“I warn that history has repeated itself in several instances in this country, and we don’t seem to take note of that,” he said.

“If we are not careful, this can create a big problem. I cite the downfall of the former GFA boss, Kwesi Nyantakyi, my very good friend. I attribute it to this particular thing he himself wanted to do, which had an impact on his downfall.”

He described any attempt to manipulate the constitution to prolong power as dangerous.

“To me, anyone who wants to stay in power perpetually, especially by twisting the constitution to suit their interests, is a danger to the organisation and to society,” he added.

Kwesi Nyantakyi, who had already served two terms, benefited from a constitutional amendment that allowed him to contest for a third. However, midway through that term, he was implicated in the explosive Number 12 documentary by journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, which led to his resignation and a lifetime FIFA ban.

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The Phobians wrapped up the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League campaign in fourth place, finishing with 58 points from 34 matches. While a top-four finish is commendable, the season ended without any trophies for the Accra-based side.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Dr. Tamakloe acknowledged the team’s achievement but made it clear that more progress is expected.

“We were able to make the top four at the end of the season, but we will improve our performance next season,” he said.

Local media reports also suggest Hearts of Oak are planning a coaching change, with head coach Aboubakar Ouattara set to depart. Speculation is growing that former Black Stars assistant coach Maxwell Konadu may be brought in to take over ahead of the 2025/26 season.

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The Black Stars currently top Group I of the World Cup qualifiers with 15 points, with four crucial games remaining.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe stressed the need for head coach Otto Addo and his squad to build chemistry ahead of the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

“The Black Stars will need cohesion before the World Cup; otherwise, the team will struggle at the tournament should we qualify,” he said.

Reacting to Senegal’s impressive 3-1 comeback win over England on Tuesday at the City Ground, he praised their performance and questioned Ghana’s readiness.

“I watched Senegal against England, and I couldn’t believe their performance. And I asked myself, could we put up such a performance?”

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also criticized the team culture where some players join camp late but still feature in matches.

“We have seen instances where players arrive late at camp, and the next day, you see them play, which is wrong,” he added.

He noted that Senegal’s team was largely made up of home-based players and suggested Ghana consider a similar approach.

“Senegal fielded local players, and can we also do that? So we need to sit up and get things right before the tournament starts.”

Ghana will continue their qualification campaign in September with an away fixture against Chad, followed by a home clash with Mali. They will then face Comoros and the Central African Republic in October to wrap up their group matches.

The Black Stars are hoping to make their fifth World Cup appearance in 2026.

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Okraku was appointed Second Vice President of CAF over the weekend during an Executive Committee meeting held in Accra.

In an interview with Graphic Sports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe commended the GFA President for his elevation and urged him to prioritize CAF’s broader objectives over personal ambition.

He cautioned, however, that any deviation from this path could jeopardize his progress.

“I think it’s good news for Ghana soccer. Like Kwasi Nyantakyi, who raised Ghana’s image to a very high level within CAF and FIFA circles, I believe if Kurt really works hard, he might even become the CAF President,” Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe stated.

“Integrity and hard work will determine whether he can reach the CAF seat and eventually the FIFA level.”

He emphasized that integrity and diligence would be key to Okraku’s advancement, potentially even to roles at the global level within FIFA.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also called on Okraku to use his new position to champion the interests of both Ghanaian and African football, while creating opportunities for more Ghanaians to assume leadership roles within the continental body.

Reflecting on the impact of former GFA President Kwasi Nyantakyi, he noted that despite his eventual controversies, Nyantakyi laid a strong foundation for Ghanaian football administrators on the African stage.

“My successor, Kwasi Nyantakyi — if he hadn’t encountered difficulties — would have been in very high positions, not only in Africa but globally. He left an indelible mark at CAF, and that has paved the way for Kurt,” he explained.

“Kwasi performed excellently; he knew football. I worked with him and can testify to his knowledge. His achievements pushed Ghana forward, and Kurt is now benefiting from that legacy.”

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe concluded by advising Okraku to lead with fairness, transparency, and firmness, ensuring that his influence benefits football locally, continentally, and globally.

“I pray that Kurt does everything properly — be firm and fair — and ensures that football is served not only in Africa but around the world,” he said.

Kurt Okraku currently also serves as the WAFU Zone B President.

After a disappointing 2024—where they won just two of their 10 matches and failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—the Black Stars have started 2025 on a strong note.

Ghana secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium in their Matchday 5 fixture before extending their fine form with a 3-0 triumph against Madagascar at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium in Morocco on Monday night.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe commended the team for their improved performance, highlighting their teamwork and discipline.

“The overall performance was better than what I’ve seen before,” the Hearts of Oak Board Member noted. “They demonstrated commitment and teamwork more than they used to. No player was trying to play to the gallery.”

With these back-to-back victories, the Black Stars now sit atop Group I with 15 points.

Otto Addo’s side will resume their qualification campaign in September, facing Chad away before hosting Mali in Matchdays 7 and 8.

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The Leicester City forward played a key role as Ghana secured a 5-0 victory over Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium before defeating Madagascar 3-0 in the Matchday five and six fixtures of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

While commending the team’s overall performance, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe was particularly impressed with Ayew’s team-first approach, which he believes contributed significantly to Ghana’s dominant display.

“They played like a team, and for once, I saw Jordan Ayew play selflessly,” the Hearts of Oak Board Member and former Ghana Football Association (GFA) chairman told Graphic Sports.

“He created space and distributed the ball well, which was wonderful. Before, he used to hold on to the ball too much, but this time, we didn’t see that,” he noted.

Ayew, who scored against Chad last Friday, further demonstrated his attacking prowess by netting a sensational hat trick in Ghana’s win over Madagascar on Monday night.

So far in the ongoing qualifiers, the Black Stars captain has registered four assists and five goals, reinforcing his crucial role in Ghana’s World Cup campaign.

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The 32-year-old earned his maiden call-up to the senior national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.

He seized the opportunity, delivering commanding displays and keeping clean sheets in both matches.

In an interview with Graphic Sports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe praised Asare’s performances and stated that he has justified his place as Ghana’s number-one goalkeeper.

“It was a good decision using Benjamin Asare because he (the coach) has tried all the other goalkeepers, and Asare was able to demonstrate clearly that he is fit for the job,” he said.

He also emphasized that Asare’s emergence highlights the quality within Ghana’s domestic league.

“He’s made a case for the local players, but we can never be home and dry as far as this competition is concerned until local players are featured prominently.”

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo also reaffirmed Asare’s position as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper, praising his dedication in training.

“I think the next game is in June, and he is already the number one. We made that decision for him. He trained very well. We have a good atmosphere where the keepers are pushing each other,” Addo asserted.

With Ghana leading Group I with 15 points, the Black Stars will now turn their focus to their next qualifiers, facing Chad away before hosting Mali in crucial Matchday 7 and 8 encounters in June.

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Reports have surfaced recently that the GFA’s Review Committee has suggested this change to the Executive Council, potentially allowing a president to serve for three terms instead of two.

In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe expressed his concerns, explaining, “My main reason for saying this is that Graphic [Sports] asked me about a rumour going around that the present leadership of the FA intends to come up with a suggestion that will lead to the extension of the president’s term.”

“I think the FA has a constitution, and the constitution clearly states that the term should be two terms, just like we have in this country now.”

“To me, we have to go by the constitution, and if it is to defend the constitution, I will definitely do that,” he added.

Currently in his fifth year as president, Kurt Okraku faces criticism from prominent figures, including Ghana League Clubs Association Chairman Kudjoe Fianoo, who has recently called for Okraku’s impeachment, citing a decline in the state of Ghanaian football.

Recent reports suggest that the GFA may soon amend its statutes to allow for a three-term presidency. However, in an interview with Graphic Sports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe recalled the extensive efforts he made to ensure that the presidency became an elected position rather than a government appointment.

Before his tenure began in 2004, the GFA presidency was appointed by the government, a practice he successfully lobbied to end by working with both FIFA and the Ghanaian government.

“I won’t allow anyone to tinker with the GFA statute after the sacrifices I made to ensure the position is based on merit through elections,” he stated.

A board member of Hearts of Oak, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also expressed concerns that extending the presidency term could lead to increased corruption. He argued that prolonged tenures compromise accountability, emphasizing the importance of preserving the two-term limit. “Positions corrupt people in this country, and when you extend the term, the corruption becomes even worse,” he warned.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe reaffirmed his commitment to defending the current statutes, pledging to challenge any proposals he views as self-serving. “I was the architect of the two-term limit for the FA presidency, and I will not allow anyone to topple the statute to serve their personal agenda,” he stated firmly. “If they try to change the tenure, I’ll fight it with all my strength. It was my recommendation that compelled the FA to adopt this policy,” he added.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe becomes the second football administrator to speak against the possibility of extending the GFA presidency term after Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) chairman, Kudjoe Fianoo, also vowed to fight any such attempts.

The 45-year-old coach is facing significant scrutiny following the Black Stars’ disappointing performance in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

After a lacklustre start, which included a loss to Angola and a 1-1 draw against Niger, the team was eager to secure their first victory.

Unfortunately, the Black Stars managed only a goalless draw in the first leg against Sudan, followed by a surprising 2-0 defeat to the Falcons at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya, raising doubts about their chances of qualifying for the tournament.

Despite the calls for Addo’s resignation, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe emphasized that firing the former Borussia Dortmund assistant coach would not solve the team’s issues.

He believes that Addo requires guidance to achieve success.

“I will not say Otto Addo should be dismissed because that has never been the solution. He rather needs advice,” he told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

“He (Otto Addo) will only do well based on the instructions he will be given by the Ghana Football Association (GFA). Otto Addo must not be sacked. Keep him and guide him,” he added.

Currently sitting third in Group F, Ghana will regroup for their crucial final matches against Niger and Angola next month.

To qualify for AFCON, they will need to win both games and hope Sudan drops points in their remaining matches.

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He said despite the level of corruption, the quest to eliminate the canker was attainable and should attract the support of all.

Dr Tamakloe was speaking at the third edition of the Asogli Anti-Corruption forum and said fighting corruption need not be the responsibility of the government alone.

He called for strong, independent institutions which he said should be “properly resourced and encouraged to carry out their mandate without fear or favour,”

Dr. Tamakloe said crucial entities such as the Office of the Special Prosecutor should be given the needed independence and support to function.

A call was made for the Right To Information law to be fully implemented.

Dr Tamakloe Said the government should adopt transparent processes in public procurement, budgeting and policy implementation, and commended anti-corruption agencies such as the Ghana Integrity Initiative for sustaining the fight.

The Statesman also said asset declaration laws should be made more effective in implementation,

“Leaders must lead by example. There must be a higher standard of ethical conduct for those in power, both within the government and the private sector,”

Dr Tamakloe emphasised the need to build a culture of accountability from the ground up, and to make effective, various platforms for whistle-blowing, which would protect those who fight corruption.”

Daniel Yao Dormelevo, former Auditor General turned anti-corruption campaigner also was a speaker at the event and called for a national transition from corruption to integrity.

“This can be achieved sooner or later if we fight corruption,” he said.

Mr Dormelevo went on to say that ethical and transformational leadership was required in establishing and sustaining a multi-faceted approach to the fight against corruption and called for the strengthening of anti-corruption laws.

He said laws to ensure proper lifestyle audits of public officials should also be affected.

“If we build a good system, we all will benefit from it,” he asserted.

Other speakers at the anti-corruption forum include Mensah Thompson and Eric Ahiafor, also known as anti-corruption campaigners, and all who helped expand the conversation surrounding corruption in the country.

The various speakers commended Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli for institutionalising the anti-corruption day celebration and hoped it would bear significantly on the national outlook.

Togbe Afede, in his remarks, spoke of the extended consequences of corruption and stated, “massive job losses,” and rising suicide rates in the country.

He said it therefore became crucial to work together as a nation against the corruption menace and to eschew tribalism and other forms of disunity which he said caused corruption to strive.

Togbe Afede said the Asogli State recognised the need to actively contribute to the fight, and thus the anti-corruption day celebration would feature permanently in the popular festival.

“The fight against corruption is very important and that’s why it has been made part of the Yam Festival,” he said.

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Currently sitting at the bottom of the league table with no points after two losses, the Accra-based club has struggled in their opening matches.

Hearts of Oak was narrowly defeated 1-0 by newly-promoted Basake Holy Stars and subsequently lost 2-0 to Heart of Lions on Sunday.

In response to the club’s poor performance, some fans have called for the dismissal of head coach Aboubakar Ouattara recording 7 wins, 9 losses, and 3 draws in 19 games.

However, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe addressed these concerns in an interview with Angel FM, rejecting calls for the coach’s removal.

“I totally disagree with that. The coach has been given that freehand by the Board to select his own boys and train them and that is exactly what he is doing.”

He tried the boys before he brought them into the team. If we have lost two matches, that does not mean we have failed or that does not mean the coach has failed. I don’t believe that.”

Nyaho-Tamakloe expressed his belief that the team will improve, stating, “I believe strongly that the way they are playing now, very soon, they will gel very beautifully and all these ‘doubting Thomases’ will now see that it takes time to train boys,” he added.

Hearts of Oak will look to secure their first win of the season in their upcoming match against Bechem United.

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Discussions about the effects of illegal mining have been reignited following a recent JoyNews documentary titled ‘Poisoned Rivers’ which highlighted the seriousness of river pollution as a result of ‘galamsey’.

A recent report by The Fourth Estate has also named some government officials and politically exposed persons who are seeking permits to mine in Ghana’s forest reserves including protected areas.

The Ghana Water Company(GWCL) has also announced that it is struggling to treat water for several communities due to the negative impact of ‘galamsey’ on rivers that are treated for distribution.

The GWCL and others have warned that Ghana may soon be compelled to start importing water on a large scale if nothing is done about the Galamsey menace.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, September 9, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe blamed the menace on the failure of political leadership under the current regime.

“I agree entirely. The Military has leadership and if they’re given that task without the influence of politicians, I can assure you they will finish this within one week. If they’re told this is the task; stop it, I can assure you within one week they will stop it.

“But where you have leaders within the political parties and the groupings using a section of the military; [it becomes difficult],” he said.

He however noted that the Ghana Armed Forces(GAF) on any day would have halted the canker, but cannot do the same now due to the high political interest.

“The military has changed just like politics in this country. It has changed. Politics formally, at least the one that I saw, we had leaders with integrity. We don’t have them now. You have politicians who had feelings for the ordinary person, we don’t have them now.

“The leadership we have in politics now are the leaders who come to steal; physical stealing. The same with the military. In the military years back when they were given a task, you could be sure they would do it,” he added.

He said this in response to a call by the Ghana Water Company MD that the ‘galamsey’ fight ought to be put directly under the Chief of Defense staff for the military to handle it.

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe blamed the changes in the military largely on political interference, especially through what has become known as protocol recruitment into the service.

“The Military itself has been so politicized now. When we’re recruiting people into the army now it has become a protocol list. It never existed when I was in the army. The Military gave directives and recruitment is done in every region of the country.

“The so-called protocol list has totally destroyed the security service in this country and we’re all sitting down looking,” he lamented.

Source: Ebenezer Afanyi Dadzie

The Phobian Club has faced the threat of relegation in the past two seasons.

Hearts of Oak managed to retain their Premier League status with a crucial 3-2 victory over Bechem United on the final day of the 2023/24 season.

In an interview with JoySports, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe expressed confidence in the club’s future, stating that significant progress is underway.

“I can assure you that within the next five years, the improvement in the standard of football at Hearts of Oak, and the club’s performances both domestically and internationally, will astonish many,” the former GFA Chairman said.

He emphasized that the club’s current efforts are part of a long-term project and encouraged supporters to remain patient, promising that the outcome will be something they can take pride in.

As part of their preparations for the upcoming season, Hearts of Oak has relocated their pre-season training camp to Asutsuare in the Shai Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region.

Coach Abubakar Ouattara and the team will train in Asutsuare for a week before heading to Lome, Togo, for the final phase of their pre-season.

Hearts of Oak will kick off the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season with a home match against newcomers Basake Holy Stars at the Accra Sports Stadium.

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The Phobian Club narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of the 2023/24 Ghana Premier League with a 3-2 victory over Bechem United at Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park.

In preparation for the upcoming season, Hearts of Oak faced a setback with a 2-1 loss to Asante Kotoko last Wednesday in the first edition of the Democracy Cup at the Accra Sports Stadium. This marked their third consecutive defeat to the Porcupine Warriors.

Despite acknowledging the current problems, Nyaho-Tamakloe remains confident they will be addressed before the new season begins.

“We have a problem at the moment, but that problem will come to an end before the start of the league 2024-2025,” he told Joy Sports.

“We have a coach we believe can stabilize the team, select the best players, maintain good control, and provide the necessary training,” he added.

Additionally, Hearts of Oak is set to play against Heart of Lions in the 2024 Homowo Charity Cup at the Accra Sports Stadium on August 11, 2024.

The 2024/25 Ghana Premier League is scheduled to commence on September 6, as announced by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

New Patriotic Party (NPP) founding member, Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has accused President Nana Akufo-Addo of not being honest.

This according to him was right from the onset of Akufo-Addo’s administration in 2017, stating he warned Ghanaians against voting for him.

“If a leader is not honest with his people, they fall into such traps. This government has not been honest with the people of this country from day one right from when he was being sworn in. His speech should have alarmed us even though I have warned Ghanaians days before that we should vote him in,” he stated.

In an interview prior to the December 7 2016 election, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe forewarned that Ghanaians will learn a very bitter lesson in leadership in an unlikely event that Akufo-Addo is elected President.

In his view, Ghanaians needed someone who was peaceful, adding he doesn’t think Akufo-Addo has what it takes to unify the NPP for instance.

Convinced Akufo-Addo wouldn’t win the election, he declared he will vote for then President John Mahama who was seeking re-election.

In an interview with Joy News, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe felt vindicated by the current state of the nation, citing the recent power outages.

“I at times feel so sad when I look at certain issues facing this country. Dishonesty is one of the thing destroying this nation. Leaders not being honest with the people they are leading.

“Dumsor didn’t start today but from the time of Rawlings, it got worse under John Kufour. With the promises that the NPP gave, the government must ensure citizens have the power,” he told Benjamin Akakpo.

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Watch the video above for the full interview:

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe has criticised President Nana Akufo-Addo will commit huge funds to the project which could have been invested in better infrastructure.

“That can build a very complex two hospitals anywhere in the country. What is even more ridiculous is that throughout history, what I have read, I have not come across a cathedral built even within ten years. What exactly does the President want to tell us? I don’t understand,” he lamented.

In an interview on Joy News, he questioned why a nation in debt will have its priorities misplaced.

“In the last interview, I said it’s unfortunate that state resources have been wasted on this. It’s a waste, nothing else. This is a nation in debt, this is a nation where the ordinary person’s take-home pay is less than a dollar and you talk about a National Cathedral. I can’t understand it. You have promised people that you are going to build a cathedral, that is how the news came out initially.

“To honour God on certain promises you have made to him, but it turned out to be a different story. By the time we realised, state money was being pumped into it. Look at the amount of money that has been pumped into it,” he stated.

The government has come under fierce criticism over the cathedral after it failed to commission the project on March 6, 2024, as promised.

The Minority in Parliament especially have voiced concerns over the project’s expenditure and lack of transparency in funds allocation.

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According to him, contrary to pledges by the President of eliminating the canker during his campaign period, his administration has rather left much to be desired since taken over power in 2017.

The veteran politician said this during an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

“We promised the people of this country that we shall stop it. He’s been now the worst in the history of this country,” he explained.

Speaking to Benjamin Akakpo, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe insisted that, Nana Akufo-Addo has “failed totally in the fight against corruption.”

During the interview, he also touched on the prospects of NPP flagbearer and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s fortunes in the party.

According to him, Dr Bawumia would not have secure the flagbearer post without President Akufo-Addo’s monetary intervention.

“But for the backing of Akufo-Addo with money, Bawumia couldn’t have won the position,” he said.

On the back of this, he believes the Vice President has a daunting task ahead as he is currently “in the wrong terrain.”

He does not believe Dr Bawumia has the backing of a majority of the party members.

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His comments come after the senior national team were held to a goalless by the Barve Warriors in a friendly game on Monday night at the Baba Yara Stadium.

The game forms part of the team’s preparations ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast which gets underway this weekend.

However, Lamptey, who has been on a superb form for Asante Kotoko in the ongoing 2023/24 Ghana Premier League did not feature in the game.

But according to the vociferous politician and the football administrator, Chris Hughton is clueless and useless for not giving Lamptey the opportunity.

According to him, the former Inter Allies midfielder has a lot to offer and also insisted that it is about time local players are given the chance to compete and play in the national team.

“I was told that the Asante Kotoko player (Richmond Lamptey) was not given the opportunity to play yesterday against Namibia,” the Hearts of Oak Board Member told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

“The coach (Chris Hughton) is totally useless. The idea is that we bring them from the outside thinking that they are better than our local boys which I disagree. I was expecting him to handle the local players in such a way that they could be better than the so-called foreign players that we have.

“Such an intelligent young man, what is the point in dragging him to the camp and failing to use him? I am really disappointed because that boy has a lot to offer.

“We have a lot of calibres like him in the system. Our problem is to get a coach who can handle them properly

“It has happened in this country before where all the players invited to the Black Stars camp were local players and yet we won our games

“I am surprised and this tells us that it is either we don’t know what we are doing or the coaches we bring them in are useless and they can never help us,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars will hold their final training today at the Baba Yara Stadium later today before departing for the tournament on Wednesday, November 10.

Ghana have been housed in Group B alongside Cape Verde and Mozambique.

His comments come after watching the Super Clash between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko on Sunday at the Baba Yara Stadium in the matchday 14 fixture.

Reflecting on the performance of both teams, Dr Nyaho Tamakloe, who is a former Ghana Football Association (GFA) chairman said the standard of quality in the local has improved and when the best players are assembled and with a good coach, foreign players will struggle to make the national team squad in years to come.

“The standard of play by both clubs was very good and I must say I admired the way the players played yesterday,” he told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

“If we can get such players in our Premier League division, then I think that very soon, there will be no need for a foreign player to be invited to the Black Stars.

Why do I say so? Years gone by, we had such quality players but what we need now as the whole nation is to pick the best among what we have, get a good trainer and I can assure you that every soon, these foreign players we assemble at the Black Stars will be a thing of the past,” he added.

Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak lost the game 3-2 to their bitterest rivals, Asante Kotoko and will hope to return to winning ways when they face Nations FC at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in the matchday 15 games.

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He made these remarks following Hearts of Oak’s 3-2 defeat to their rivals, Asante Kotoko on Sunday at the Baba Yara Stadium in the matchday 14 games.

Despite the defeat, the former Ghana Football Association (GFA) chairman believes the Phobia spirit is coming back to stay and very soon, football fans will notice it.

“I want to congratulate Hearts of Oak players. They did very well against Asante Kotoko,” he told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

“To me, it is quite clear that the Phobia spirit is coming back to stay and very soon, football followers in this country will see that,” he added.

Linda Mtange opened the scoring for the Phobians but their happiness was short-lived as Isaac Oppong responded with a brilliant finish to draw Kotoko level before the break.

Kotoko found themselves in the lead when Richmond Ayi spilt a shot into the path of Steven Mukwala, who made no mistake from close range to put his side ahead.

Mukwala completed his brace with 15 minutes away from full time as he chased down a through ball from Richmond Lamptey forcing the Hearts defence into a mistake which led to the former putting the ball into an empty net to extend Kotoko’s lead.

However, Martin Karikari pulled one back for the Phobians as the game ended 3-2.

Hearts of Oak, who sit 9^th on the Premier League log with 16 points will be hosted by Nations FC in the matchday 15 games.

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The current board which is led by Togbe Afede XIV as the chairman, Alhaji Akanbi and Vincent Sowah Odotei have come under pressure for the club’s poor performance in recent years.

Hearts of Oak in the last decade has won a Premier League trophy and two FA Cup trophies. 

In the ongoing 2023/24 Ghana Premier League season, the Phobians have recorded three wins, seven draws and three defeats which leave them at the 8th on the league log with 16 points.

Despite the calls for the board to be dissolved, Dr Nyaho Tamakloe, who is a former Ghana Football Association (GFA) President says they will not bow to the pressure of the fans to leave office.

“Let me make it clear and I keep saying that no one can force the present board to leave the scene. If you feel you want to run the club go and buy more shares than the present leadership and then you can form your own board it is as simple as that,” he said on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“The club at the moment is in the hands of a person who has been able to buy more shares. I have myself told supporters if they claim they have a support of 18 million, they have to buy at least 1 cedi each and maybe they can be able to out the present leader.

That is what they have to do and in every civilized country that is what is done. Otherwise, Chelsea will not sit down and have someone come from Russia to come and fund Chelsea so are the other clubs who are been funded by the Arabian countries,” he added.

Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak will face Asante Kotoko in the matchday 13 games this weekend at the Baba Yara Stadium. 

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Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe has touted the latter as a true human rights lawyer and a great activist.

This follows Mr Ampaw’s death on Friday, October 20, 2023.

Family sources say he passed away at the University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC) after a prolonged illness.

Speaking in an interview on Accra-based TV3, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe revealed he had a relationship with the deceased that has spanned over four decades.

He recounted that, they embarked on a series of activities together during their active and early days in politics, citing the famous 1995 Kume Preko demo.

“I have known him for close to 40 years; we have done a lot of political activities together. He was a great activist and a true human rights lawyer,” he eulogised.

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Mr Kyerematen resigned from his post on January 5, 2023, in his quest to pursue his presidential ambition.

But according to Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe, he warned the former to resign about eight months ago.

Speaking in an interview on Accra-based Citi TV, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe said an early resignation would have boosted his [Alan] fortunes as a potential President of Ghana.

“I won’t say Alan is a crybaby, but I warned him about resigning from the government not the party because he would have passed his way into leadership in the future. There were a lot of infractions, and he [Alan] can’t tell me he wasn’t aware,” he said.

The tough-spoken politician’s comment comes on the back of the controversy the former NPP presidential aspirant’s resignation from the NPP has generated.

In Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe’s view, all of this controversy would have been avoided if Mr Kyerematen had heeded his advice.

Asked if he expects any intervention from President Nana Akufo-Addo over the now independent candidate’s action, he responded, “The stage we have reached, there is nothing Akufo-Addo can do”.

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According to him, the timing of the resignation is wrong.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe explained that, because Mr. Kyerematen accepted to be a Minister in the Akufo-Addo-led government, he cannot absolve himself from the economic woes.

“Alan should have left the government particularly when he realised the rot going on in the party and that would have automatically turned him into a leader in the future but he didn’t do that,” he said in an interview on Accra-based Citi FM.

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe further asserted that, Mr Kyerematen stands a little chance of winning the 2024 election as an independent candidate.

“Winning an election as an independent candidate will be a huge problem for Alan because all the appeals that he has made particularly to the youth will not wash and the reason is quite simple. He has been with the Akufo-Addo’s government for almost seven years and the time that Alan should have left that government, he didn’t,” he bemoaned.

Mr Kyerematen resigned from the NPP on Monday to contest as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential polls.

He announced he will be leading a youth-based Movement for Change to actualise his presidential ambition.

The resignation though not the first has generated mixed reactions from the rank and file of the NPP as well as a section of Ghanaians.

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The 47-year-old was named as the Black Stars’ head coach in February, replacing Milovan Rajevac who was sacked after the country’s poor performance at the 2021 African Cup of Nations [AFCON] in Cameroon.

Otto Addo, who also serves as Borussia Dortmund’s talent coach, led Ghana to secure qualification to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar but the team suffered an early elimination from the tournament.

The Black Stars finished at the bottom in Group H with just three points, winning just a game and suffering two defeats.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, the Hearts of Oak board member said he doubted the competence of the 47-year-old Borussia Dortmund scout and raised the alarm when he was appointed, but his advice fell on deaf ears.

“When the committee came up with Chris Hughton, Otto Addo and the rest, I said Otto was not really a coach and if he was a coach at all, he didn’t have enough experience.

”So I suggested that in the interim we should go for Prosper Narteh Ogum, then later bring in Chris Hughton because Otto Addo could not handle the Black Stars, but people thought I was joking. You see the ending now?” he quizzed.

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Otto Addo has left his role as the head coach of the Black Stars after the team’s poor performance but Dr Tamakloe has advised the football chiefs to appoint Chris Hughton for the vacant position.

Hughton was the technical advisor to the team during the tenure of Otto Addo and Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe believes that the former Tottenham Hotspur manager is the only one with the credentials to catapult the team to a desirable level following Otto Addo’s exit.

”I think Chris Hughton will be the right person because of his background. He has the African background; second, he is a coach with experience and also has had the opportunity to know these boys,” he noted.

”If Chris Hughton is given the job, then he should come and stay in Ghana and form his local Black Stars to ensure that the nucleus of the team should come from them. He should be able to create and also train strikers for the Black Stars,” he stated.

Ghana recorded one win and two defeats at the Mundial and finished at the bottom of Group H.

His comment comes after Anas Aremeyaw Anas aired his documentary Galamsey Economy, which featured the Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Charles Adu Boahen.

Mr Adu Boahen is said to have told the undercover investigators that Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia needed $200,000 as an ‘appearance fee’ before meeting with supposed investors. 

The Minister was also reported to have said that the Vice President would demand some contracts from an investor for his siblings to get his backing and influence in establishing a business in Ghana.

According to the stalwart of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), he does not believe Anas Aremeyaw Anas is actually practising investigative journalism.

“I have made it clear that I personally don’t believe Anas. I don’t believe he is an investigative journalist. An investigative journalist does his works in such a way that all the points that he got are so important to him that no one ever hears about it”, he said.

Speaking to JoyNews in an exclusive interview with host Benjamin Akakpo, Mr Nyaho-Tamakloe asserted that the first most important thing that Anas should do is to release his documentary to the public.

However, Mr Nyaho-Tamakloe said Anas Aremeyaw Anas, after working on this documentary, then gives it out to the government first before airing it to the public.

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“The first thing he should do is to release it to the public, in the public hall or something.

“But here we have a situation where this particular investigative journalist when he comes out with something, makes sure it’s seen by the leaders of the country before it gets to the public.”

The statesman indicated that the last investigative documentary of Anas featured the President and his vice but nothing has been done about it.

“His last investigative work, the names of the President and the Vice President came in. What has happened? We should stop the sort of thinking that the people of this country are fools”, he added.

According to the politician, the personalities surrounding the president have not done much in pushing the country in the right direction.

For him, the downturn the country is currently experiencing is a testament to the fact that the President’s disciples have contributed little in nudging the President towards national development.

“These are people who are afraid to tell him exactly what is happening. This has happened to a lot of Presidents in this country. If Nana Addo will listen, I’m sure the way he is going right now he will never go there,” he added.

Speaking to JoyNews, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe insisted that his advisors and helpers have failed to tell him the true situation.

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe says that if the President were abreast of all the issues, persons accused of corruption under his watch should have been axed by now.

“People have been accused of several things, there have been infractions all over since Akufo-Addo came to power, what has been done to them?” he asked.

“I know Nana Addo was not like that, so what has happened? I’m surprised. The Nana Addo that I knew is not the one that is ruling Ghana now,” he told JoyNews‘ Benjamin Akakpo.

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So far he believes the country has retrogressed under the Akufo-Addo administration adding that the President and his cohorts are to blame.

He listed a number of people who could have coerced the President in the right direction if given the chance.

They conclude; “Charles Brobby, myself, Kwesi Pratt. There are people who will tell him exactly what is happening.”

As the defending champions of the just-ended football season, Hearts finished sixth on the league log and fell 19 points behind rivals Asante Kotoko but won back-to-back FA Cup titles on the final day of the season under head coach, Samuel Boadu.

The board member has been lambasted by a section of the fans for comments he made about the current technical team, suggesting they were not good enough to take the club to the next level despite winning the FA cup.

The former Hearts Board Chairman explained why Boadu’s incredible feat of winning five trophies in 15 months is surplus to requirements for a club that had suffered a trophy drought for more than a decade prior to his arrival.

“If you have a team and you’re camping and boys break camp, that should be a big concern that should be a big concern to a coach.

“People keep on saying he’s won five trophies but once you look at the future of the club, that’s my concern. Football is a very tricky game. Maybe we’ve been able to win five trophies by chance because the way Hearts of Oak plays its football is not the way I see it,” he told JoySports in an exclusive interview.

Boadu, who won the Ghana Premier League and MTN FA Cup last season, added the 2022 President’s Cup and FA Cup titles to his trophy haul and has the backing of many fans who have vowed to react if the Club parts ways with the manager.

However, Mr Nyaho-Tamakloe insists the gaffer must improve his art of instilling discipline in the camp.

“We have our own brand as a club and to me, it’s a disgrace that we dropped from the top position straight to sixth. If you have a child who drops from the first position in class to sixth all of a sudden, you find out why.

“I have noticed that he has no control over the boys, I advised him that he should know that he is in charge of the whole thing, any blame that will come or misunderstanding in camp or wherever they are he will be held responsible.

“But it appears he doesn’t have that control over them. You talk to him, he tries to justify some things and it’s having an effect on the team.”

Hearts are expected to compete in the CAF Confederation Cup next season and will look to bolster the current squad ahead of that.

Last season, the Phobians were thrashed away by Morrocan opponents Wydad Athletic club and Algerian side JS Saoura in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.