Calls for Collective Efforts to Revive Football, Announces Political Ambitions.
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kwesi Nyantakyi has expressed concern over the declining state of football in the country. Reflecting on his tenure, Nyantakyi highlighted the progress made during his leadership, emphasizing that Ghana football is not at a desirable level. While he served as GFA President from 2005 to 2018, Ghana consistently reached the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) between 2008 and 2017. However, since 2019, the Black Stars have faced early eliminations in major tournaments, including the AFCON and the World Cup. Nyantakyi called for collective efforts to raise the level of Ghanaian football again.
Despite recent setbacks, Nyantakyi remains confident in a resurgence for Ghanaian football. The decline in performance has been evident, especially with the national team, the Black Stars, experiencing consecutive early exits from the AFCON. Nyantakyi’s optimism stems from his belief that concerted efforts can elevate Ghana’s football status once more.
Nyantakyi’s political ambitions extend beyond football. He recently declared his intention to contest in the upcoming by-election in the Ejisu constituency. With the demise of the incumbent John Kumah, Nyantakyi hopes to become a lawmaker representing Ejisu. Additionally, he expressed interest in the role of Sports Minister, contingent upon the New Patriotic Party (NPP) retaining power in the 2024 General elections. However, he acknowledged that if the National Democratic Congress (NDC) were to come into power, such an appointment would be challenging.
As the NPP prepares to open nominations for the Ejisu primary, delegates have already resolved to pick the forms on Nyantakyi’s behalf. The political landscape remains competitive, with the NPP aiming to break the eight-year jinx of power in the fourth republic. Nyantakyi’s dual aspirations in politics and football underscore his commitment to contributing to Ghana’s development in various spheres.