NDC’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has criticised the government’s failure to maintain the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, leading to its ban by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
He described the situation as a national disgrace, pointing out that it is unprecedented for the Black Stars to play their home games at neutral venues due to poor pitch conditions.
Mahama used this incident to argue that the current administration has failed in its responsibilities and should not be re-elected in the 2024 elections.
“Recently, FIFA said the national team cannot play matches in Ghana. This is a huge embarrassment for us. It is the first time in Ghana’s history that we have been told there is no suitable stadium to host Black Stars games.
Despite this, they expect us to applaud them for their performance,” he said in Twi, as reported by GhOne TV on X.
It is important to note that Mahama mistakenly mentioned FIFA, but it was actually CAF that made the decision.
About the Baba Yara Stadium ban
CAF withdrew approval for the Baba Yara Stadium due to issues such as an uneven playing field, poor drainage, and inadequate grass cover.
This decision followed the Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying match between Ghana and Angola on September 5, 2024.
In response, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has directed the Ghana Football Association to invite CAF officials to inspect the Accra Sports Stadium and the Legon Stadium to determine if they meet the requirements to host Black Stars games.
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