Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Committee member, Dr. Randy Abbey, has responded strongly to critics who blame the federation for the poor performance of local powerhouses Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak. The iconic Ghanaian clubs have been experiencing a prolonged period of decline, both domestically and internationally, with their struggles in Africa’s top inter-club competitions raising concerns.
Dr. Randy Abbey, in his rebuttal, highlighted that the GFA does not directly manage or control Kotoko and Hearts. He pointed out that the GFA is not responsible for appointing the clubs’ board of directors or CEOs, nor does it oversee the Circles and Chapters associated with the teams. As such, he questioned the basis of attributing the clubs’ underwhelming performances to the GFA.
“Some people raise questions, and it is our duty to help them understand,” Abbey expressed during an interview on Kessben TV. “Does the GFA run Kotoko and Hearts? Is the GFA responsible for appointing the board of directors and CEOs for the clubs? Is the GFA responsible for managing the Circles and Chapters? So, what are we really talking about?”
Abbey emphasized that clubs operate autonomously, with individuals and entities in charge of their affairs. They have the authority to appoint their own CEOs, establish their structures, and govern their clubs as they see fit. Therefore, he challenged the notion that the GFA bears responsibility for the clubs’ lackluster performance and questioned the logic behind such criticism.
The decline of Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak, the two most prominent clubs in Ghana, has been a cause for concern, as their storied history seems to be slipping away. Despite this, the ongoing struggles continue unabated, leaving fans disillusioned and uncertain about the future.
It is evident that Dr. Randy Abbey, a member of the GFA Executive Committee, vehemently opposes the notion that the federation is to blame for the sorry state of the aforementioned clubs. His argument rests on the understanding that the clubs themselves are responsible for their own management and performance, leaving the GFA with limited authority over their affairs. As Ghanaian football faces these challenges, the debate surrounding the roles and responsibilities of the GFA and the clubs they oversee is likely to continue.