Former Asante Kotoko Board Chairman, Dr. Kwame Kyei, has voiced strong concerns over the growing incidents of hooliganism in Ghanaian football, warning that unchecked violence will deter potential investors and hinder the sport’s development.
Dr. Kyei’s remarks come in the wake of the tragic death of Pooley, a devoted Asante Kotoko fan, whose passing has raised serious safety concerns in Ghanaian football. Reports suggest his death may be linked to match-related violence, sparking renewed calls for action to curb hooliganism.
Speaking at Pooley’s one-week funeral observation at Heroes Park, Dr. Kyei stressed the urgent need for authorities to address the issue before it causes lasting damage to the sport.
“No serious investor will consider putting their money into a sport where there is a constant threat to the safety of players and officials,” he said in an interview with Kessben TV. “We need to create a secure and professional environment where sponsors and investors feel comfortable supporting the game.”
Hooliganism has been a persistent issue in Ghanaian football, with increasing reports of crowd violence, referee abuse, and attacks on players. Dr. Kyei emphasized that such behavior not only tarnishes the sport’s reputation but also threatens its growth.
Investment is crucial for the sustainability and global competitiveness of Ghanaian football, requiring substantial funding in infrastructure, player development, and team management. However, safety concerns are making investors hesitant to commit to the league.
Dr. Kyei warned that without immediate intervention, Ghanaian football risks stagnation. “If we want to see the kind of football we all dream of—where players are respected, teams are competitive, and the league is world-class—then we need to ensure that the environment is free of violence.”
His call adds to growing demands for stricter measures to curb hooliganism, ensuring the sport’s integrity and long-term success.
Aduana Stars GM Takyi Arhin Criticizes Kotoko and Hearts’ Demand for GFA Executive Council Slots
Aduana Stars General Manager Takyi Arhin has strongly opposed Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak’s request for automatic representation on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council, dismissing their demands as unjustified.
Kotoko and Hearts, Ghana’s two most successful clubs, issued a joint statement calling for structural reforms in the GFA, including guaranteed seats on the Executive Council, in the wake of Francis Frimpong’s tragic death in Nsoatre.
However, in an interview with Pure FM, Arhin argued that neither club should be given special privileges, insisting that all Ghana Premier League (GPL) teams deserve equal treatment.
“We are not justifying what happened in Nsoatre; we condemn it, and we mourn with the family. But don’t use this tragedy to demand an Exco slot just because you are the most glamorous club. That argument is neither here nor there. They are like any other club in the country,” Arhin stated.
He further criticized Kotoko and Hearts, claiming they have lost their once-dominant status in Ghanaian football.
“Today, if Kotoko is playing, you can count the fans in the stadium within three minutes. The same applies to Hearts of Oak. We used to use Kotoko and Hearts for budgeting, but that’s no longer the case.”
Arhin also questioned their recent influence in Ghanaian football, pointing out their lack of dominance in the last decade.
“How many times have Kotoko and Hearts won the league in the last 10 years?” he asked.
Meanwhile, following Pooley’s tragic passing, the GFA has announced plans to enhance safety measures at football venues across the country.
