Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has addressed concerns about his recent absence from public view, explaining that he was abroad on official GFA business and for personal medical reasons.
Okraku’s silence had drawn criticism, especially following the tragic death of Asante Kotoko supporter Francis “Nana Pooley” Frimpong. Many questioned his lack of public comment after the incident at the Nana Kronmansah Park during the Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko, which led to the league’s indefinite suspension.
About a week ago, GFA Executive Council member Nana Oduro Sarfo explained that Okraku’s health prevented him from engaging publicly. “Since the incident occurred, he has not spoken publicly. The reason is that Kurt is not feeling well and is currently not in the country,” Sarfo stated.
Despite these explanations, some speculated that Okraku’s absence was tied to personal ambitions, specifically his rumored bid for a position on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Executive Committee. Okraku has firmly denied these claims, stating that his priorities are the GFA and his health.
Upon his return to Ghana, the GFA president reiterated that his time abroad served the best interests of Ghanaian football. “I was out of the country not to campaign for a slot on the CAF Executive Committee, but to work for the FA and to attend to my medical needs,” Kurt Okraku clarified.
Following his return, Okraku and his delegation met briefly with the Asante Kotoko Interim Management Committee (IMC) to discuss Frimpong’s death and explore ways to move forward before the league’s resumption.
Kurt Okraku appealed to the public for assistance in the investigation of Frimpong’s murder. “If you love football, this is the time to be honest!” he urged, calling on witnesses to come forward.
Meanwhile, Kotoko has resumed training but maintains its stance of refusing to play official matches until justice is served. As a result, their FA Cup match against Eleven Wise, scheduled for this weekend, has been postponed.
