Alhaji Akanbi, a board member of Hearts of Oak, has publicly announced his endorsement of Kurt Okraku’s bid for re-election as GFA President in the upcoming elections scheduled for September 27 in Tamale.
Kurt Okraku, who assumed the role in October 2019, is vying for another term as the head of the GFA. His initial appointment followed the end of Kwesi Nyantakyi’s tenure, which was marred by revelations of corruption in Ghana football exposed in the Anas Aremeyaw Anas “Number 12” video.
With his current term nearing its conclusion, Kurt Okraku submitted his nomination on August 11, 2023, to seek re-election. Alhaji Akanbi, who is also in the running for a GFA Exco position, expressed his support for Okraku, emphasizing the commendable work he has done despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Alhaji Akanbi stressed the importance of continuity in Ghana football’s progress and sees Kurt Okraku as the candidate who can lead the country’s football to greater heights. He highlighted Okraku’s achievements and vision, particularly in the pursuit of autonomy for the Ghana Premier League.
During an interview at the GFA Secretariat, Alhaji Akanbi stated, “Infact the president [Kurt Okraku] has done a lot for Ghana football within this four years, and I want to support him for continuity, there are a lot of things that he has done”
“Personally, the Ghana Premier League becoming autonomous is my priority and I think with Kurt Okraku, he will lead us to being autonomous”, he added.
Alhaji Akanbi continued, “Why I am supporting him is that he has done a great job within the short term, four years is very short and he needs to be given another four years to complete whatever that he want to do. My name is Alhaji Akanbi, board member of Hearts of Oak and I pledge my support for Kurt Okraku in next GFA elections and I believe he will retain the seat.”
While Kurt Okraku enjoys endorsements from various accomplished football administrators, he faces stiff competition from George Afriyie, who previously contested against Okraku four years ago.
