Members of the Ghanaian Parliament have criticised the lack of security at the venues of the various league.
They explained that players and officials should be protected as a way of ensuring the full participation of the necessary stakeholders in the local game.
Their concerns follow the passing of Kwame Kyei Andoh, a 21 year-old referee in the Western Region a few weeks ago and they deliberated the matter on Wednesday’s sitting of the House.
Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Hon. Baba Jamal, said, ” We must ensure that there is enough security at our stadia. We must have a serene atmosphere to enjoy our football so fighting and hooliganism do not augur well for the country.”
The Ranking Member on the Sports Committee, Hon. Isaac Asiamah, of the Atwima Mponua constituency, went further to look at the remuneration of match officials and called for the quick implementation of the Sports Fund mentioned in the Sports Bill in order to ensure greater rewards for referees.
” I choose to look at the Sports Fund stated in the Sports Bill because the harsh reality is that our referees and players are not getting enough money in terms of motivation. We need to have funds to support, especially referees in what they do.
Mr. Speaker, they handle matches at far off distances and they are paid very meagre amounts and yet, they are expected to do their best on the day.
Mr. Speaker, one can just imagine how tempted they will be looking for other sources of income. Then, the possibility of compromising the match increases, leading to negative fan action. We need to really push for the Sports Fund, Mr. Speaker.”
In the wake of the passing of Referee Andoh, the Ghana Football Association has handed an indefinite home ban to Gold Stars while the Western Regional Football Association has been ordered to fully investigate the happenings surrounding the Andoh’s death.
By: Nathan Quao/citifmonline.com/Ghana