Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Chairman Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has issued a stern warning to the current football leadership over plans to amend the GFA statutes to allow a third term for the presidency.
Speaking to Joy Sports, Dr. Tamakloe urged the GFA to learn from history, particularly the controversial downfall of Kwesi Nyantakyi, the former GFA boss who faced a similar constitutional amendment during his tenure.
The proposal to increase the GFA presidential limit from two to three terms is expected to be discussed when Congress meets on August 12, and it could pave the way for current President Kurt Okraku to seek re-election in 2027.
“I warn that history has repeated itself in several instances in this country, and we don’t seem to take note of that,” Tamakloe said. He referenced Nyantakyi’s extended reign as a cautionary tale.
“If we are not careful, this can create a big problem, because citing the downfall of the former GFA boss, Kwesi Nyantakyi, my very good friend, I attribute it to this particular thing he himself wanted to do, which would have an impact on his downfall.”
Nyantakyi served two terms before the GFA revised its statutes to allow a third term, which he began in 2015. However, just three years into that term, he was implicated in the explosive Number 12 exposé by investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas. The exposé led to his resignation and a lifetime FIFA ban from all football-related activities.
Dr. Tamakloe stressed that leaders who seek to manipulate constitutional rules for personal gain pose a threat to institutional integrity.
“To me, anyone who wants to stay in power perpetually, especially by twisting the constitution to suit their interests, is a danger to the organization and the society.”
As the football fraternity anticipates the upcoming Congress, Tamakloe’s warning adds to the growing scrutiny surrounding the proposed changes to the GFA’s leadership structure.
