GHALCA Upholds John Kofi Ansah’s Candidacy for Chairmanship Amidst Disqualification Petition

The Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) has officially dismissed a petition aimed at disqualifying John Kofi Ansah, a prominent chairman aspirant, from the upcoming elections set for January 21, 2025. This decision reflects GHALCA’s commitment to fairness and due process within its electoral framework.

The petition against John Ansah raised serious allegations, including his previous arraignment in a Circuit Court for purported offenses related to match ticket racketeering dating back to 1996 and match manipulation incidents in 2016. These claims sought to challenge his integrity and suitability for leadership within the association.

According to the GHALCA Election Committee, the petitioner referenced Articles 9 (1) (b) and 9 (1) (h) of the GHALCA Constitution, which emphasize the necessity for members to maintain a high moral standard and avoid any conduct that could tarnish the association’s reputation. This foundation underscores the importance of integrity in the leadership of sports organizations.

However, after a thorough examination of the petition and its claims, GHALCA determined that there were insufficient grounds to disqualify John Kofi Ansah, thereby allowing him to move forward in the election process set for January 21, 2025. This decision highlights the association’s commitment to ensuring that all candidates are given a fair opportunity to participate.

“The petition lacks sufficient evidence to substantiate any conviction of the Respondent. Disqualifying a candidate solely based on unproven allegations or media reports would be unduly harsh. The candidate provided the Committee with a police clearance report dated 30th December, 2024, and a Court ruling as evidence of his acquittal and discharge by an Accra Circuit Court. The candidate, John Ansah is cleared to contest the election,” read the conclusive verdict decision by GHALCA on Wednesday, January 15, 2024.

This ruling ensures that Mr. Ansah remains a viable candidate for the GHALCA chairmanship, allowing the election process to continue with him actively participating. The implications of this decision are significant, as it reinforces the integrity of the election process and affirms the association’s commitment to fair play.

John Ansah, who is campaigning for the position of chairman in the GHALCA elections, faced scrutiny regarding his eligibility and qualifications due to the petition. However, the association’s findings reveal no substantial evidence to support the claims against him, allowing Ansah to persist in his candidacy for this crucial leadership role.

The dismissal of the petition indicates that John Ansah is fully eligible to compete in the upcoming elections, signaling a robust electoral process that will proceed with him as a leading candidate for the chairmanship.

Ansah aims to succeed outgoing chairman Kudjoe Fianoo, who has held the position for an impressive eight years. The election will involve a total of 134 voting members, comprising 36 representatives from the Premier League, 48 from Division One, 30 from Regional Football Associations (RFAs), and 20 from the Women’s Premier League.

Among the candidates competing for this significant position is Isaac Wilberforce Koomson, who is making his third attempt after two previous losses to Fianoo in the elections of 2016 and 2020. This competitive landscape promises an engaging election period for GHALCA.