Hearts of Oak and Kotoko reach agreement with GFA, back enhanced safety measures

Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko have made significant strides in their collaboration with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to elevate the Ghana Premier League. Following a high-level meeting on February 17, 2025, the two clubs have reached an agreements on key measures to enhance league standards, safety, and security.

The meeting, held at the GFA’s request, addressed the joint petition submitted by both clubs. Discussions centred on implementing robust safety protocols, increasing security personnel, and accelerating progress toward an autonomous league structure.

Both clubs expressed strong approval for the GFA’s enhanced “Matchday Safety and Security Protocols,” which include stricter crowd control, faster emergency response times, and comprehensive safety checks. The two giants pledged to ensure strict compliance with these protocols and demand regular reviews.

Hearts of Oak and Kotoko reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining high operational and ethical standards within the Ghana Premier League. They agreed to comply with the GFA’s updated guidelines, including rigorous referee training, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced fan engagement initiatives.

The meeting marked a significant step toward establishing an Autonomous Premier League which the GFA to register the league as a corporate entity and establish operational bank accounts. Each club will appoint a board member to oversee the league’s strategic direction.

While both clubs expressed readiness to collaborate with the GFA and fellow Premier League clubs  to ensure a seamless and successful league restart., Asante Kotoko will hold a press conference on February 24, 2025, to announce their final decision.

Despite the scheduled resumption of club football this weekend with the MTN FA Cup Round of 16 matches, marking the return of the Ghana Premier League following Nana Pooley’s passing, Asante Kotoko remains resolute in their decision to boycott all football activities until justice is served. Consequently, their match against Eleven Wise has been postponed indefinitely.

Meanwhile, Kurt Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association, will meet with Asante Kotoko’s management for the first time at the club’s office on Thursday, following the recent tragic loss of loyal supporter Nana Pooley.

Full Club statement below:

The post Hearts of Oak and Kotoko reach agreement with GFA, back enhanced safety measures first appeared on 3News.

Read Full Story