Ghana's sports future hinges on ending political rivalry
Samson Deen, President of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana, is calling on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to stop politicising sports and join forces to unlock the sector's potential. In a passionate appeal, Deen warned that political divisions are scaring off sponsors, weakening sports administration, and endangering the careers of young athletes.
“Politics is dividing us. Politics is destroying our sports,” Deen said in a statement on his Facebook page. He stressed that no business would invest in a sector riddled with disputes. “How do you expect a sponsor to carry money and dump the money into confusion? It's not possible,” he added at a Team Ghana sponsorship event.
Why political unity matters for sports investment
Deen believes that a united front is essential to attract the private sector funding that Ghana's sports desperately need. He proposed a broader forum involving both major political parties and all sports stakeholders to tackle the sector's challenges head-on. “Let's come together with a bigger forum where we shall be able to address the issues bedevilling our sports,” he said.
He also cautioned against targeting sports administrators simply because they served under a previous government. Such practices, he argued, create a cycle of retaliation that harms institutional stability. Deen cited his continued defence of former Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif as an example of his stance. “I defended Mustapha Ussif and I still defend him till today,” he said.
Action over words: reforming sports administration
Deen urged national associations to move beyond slogans like “reset” and prove their commitment through tangible reforms. “It's not just by the words, 'reset, reset'. No. It's by action,” he said. He called on administrators to resolve internal disagreements quietly and present a united image to the world.
He also questioned why Ghana continues to face recurring disputes over World Cup participation, player allowances, and payments to technical officials, despite the recommendations of the Dzamefe Commission, which investigated the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. That inquiry, he noted, should have led to lasting improvements in sports management.
Infrastructure: the real cost of modernising stadiums
On infrastructure, Deen challenged the US$12 million figure being floated for stadium rehabilitation. He estimated that restoring the four major stadiums in Kumasi, Accra, Takoradi, and Tamale would require at least US$80 million. He called for better facilities nationwide and more programmes to encourage children aged 8 to 16 to take up sports.
Deen warned that continued hostility could push experienced administrators out of the sector. He reiterated his plan to retire from sports administration in 2028, citing persistent sabotage and blackmail. “I have announced just recently that I'll be retiring from sports in 2028,” he said.
A call for journalists and stakeholders to act responsibly
Deen also urged journalists to investigate allegations involving sports officials thoroughly before publishing, noting that public attacks and unresolved disputes damage the sector's reputation. “No sponsor will invest in sports if we don't stop this attitude,” he said.
His final message was one of unity: “Let's come together as one unit.” For Ghana's sports to thrive, the time to put politics aside is now.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Samson Deen calling for an end to political rivalry in sports?
Deen believes political divisions are discouraging sponsors, weakening administration, and putting young athletes' futures at risk. He wants the NPP and NDC to work together through a broader forum to address the sector's challenges.
What does Deen say about stadium rehabilitation costs?
He questions the US$12 million figure for stadium repairs and estimates that restoring the four major stadiums in Kumasi, Accra, Takoradi, and Tamale would require at least US$80 million.
What is Deen's stance on sports administrators and journalists?
He opposes targeting administrators for their political affiliations and urges journalists to verify allegations before publishing. He stresses that public disputes and unfounded attacks drive away sponsors.