The recent spate of violence in Ghanaian football has become a significant topic of discussion in Parliament.
On Wednesday, 20th February, lawmakers addressed the tragic stabbing of an Asante Kotoko fan during a Ghana Premier League match at Nsoatreman.
Adding to concerns, a referee was also assaulted during a Division One league game between Elmina Sharks and Swedru All Blacks over the past weekend. These incidents have raised alarms about safety at match venues.
Berekum West Member of Parliament, Dickson Duah, called for the stringent enforcement of disciplinary actions to combat hooliganism. He urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the National Sports Authority (NSA) to implement robust safety measures to prevent further violence.
“I urge the GFA and NSA to put in place stringent safety protocols to avoid such incidents. This should include enhanced security at stadiums, strict disciplinary actions against violent conduct, and increased public education on sportsmanship,” Duah said.
Hon Sammy Awuku, MP for Akuapem North, raised concerns about alcohol consumption around stadiums, suggesting that restrictions should be placed on drinking spots near these venues. He argued that many fans drink heavily before entering, which impairs their judgment and contributes to violence during matches.
“Fans are not allowed to bring alcohol into the stadium, but many drink heavily beforehand. When tensions rise during the game, their judgment is impaired, leading to misconduct,” Awuku explained.
Bolga Central MP, Isaac Adongo, questioned the safety of continuing the Ghana Premier League without proper security measures. He emphasized that certain match venues are unsafe.
“Such fields are death traps. We go there, and nothing happens, but we believe it’s a proper football field. It is not,” Adongo asserted.
Furthermore, Awuku highlighted poor officiating as a key contributor to hooliganism. He stated, “You cannot separate vandalism and fan riots from poor officiating. Controversial refereeing decisions often lie at the heart of such clashes.”
The debate concluded with First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, directing that the matter be urgently referred to the Minister of Sports for immediate action.
