Accra, Ghana – The Kotoko National Circles Council (NCC) has announced its decision to boycott a crucial meeting organized by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to address supporter safety at football matches.
The meeting, intended to bring together key stakeholders, including club representatives, security agencies, and supporters’ groups, was convened following recent incidents of violence and disorder at matches across Ghana.
However, the NCC, a major supporters’ group of Asante Kotoko SC, expressed dissatisfaction with the GFA’s handling of supporter-related issues in the past, including the lack of meaningful dialogue and resolution of concerns raised by fan groups.
In a statement released on February 6th, the NCC stated, “We refuse to be part of any meeting that does not take our concerns seriously. The safety of our supporters has been an ongoing issue, and the GFA has failed to adequately address it.” They emphasized that any discussions on fan safety must include direct input from the supporters themselves.
The NCC’s boycott has sparked mixed reactions. While some support the group’s stance, others criticize the decision, suggesting it may hinder progress in improving supporter safety.
The GFA expressed disappointment over the boycott but reiterated its commitment to addressing supporter safety concerns. “We remain open to engaging with all stakeholders, including the Kotoko National Circles Council, in finding a lasting solution to the challenges surrounding supporter safety,” a GFA spokesperson said.
Recent years have seen a rise in violence at Ghanaian football matches, including clashes between rival supporters and physical altercations with security personnel. This has raised serious concerns about fan safety and increased pressure on the GFA to implement effective security protocols.
The Kotoko National Circles Council’s decision highlights the growing frustration and distrust among supporters regarding the GFA’s handling of fan-related issues. Whether the GFA can bridge this divide and gain the support of the NCC remains to be seen.
