Vincent Assafuah and Sam George clash over Baba Yara Stadiumâ??s poor state

The deteriorating condition of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium has sparked a political clash between two Members of Parliament, following confirmation from the National Sports Authority (NSA) that the facility is currently unfit to host football matches at any level.

The stadium, home to Ghana Premier League giants Asante Kotoko, has been widely criticised after recent photos showed a withered pitch with little to no green cover.

During an inspection on July 31, 2025, NSA Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah attributed the decline to human negligence and harsh weather conditions in the Ashanti Region.

The state of the venue drew sharp criticism from Vincent Ekow Assafuah, MP for Old Tafo and Ranking Member on Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he blamed the ruling NDC government for failing to act seven months into its administration and called for urgent intervention to enable Kotoko host CAF Confederation Cup matches.

“Baba Yara Stadium remains unfit 7 months into the NDC’s rule. Kotoko deserves better ahead of CAF tourney. Kumasi’s economy and Ghana’s image suffer. We call for urgent action: fund repairs, fix leadership, restore pride. Ghana’s champions need a home!”

However, Samuel Nartey George, MP for Ningo-Prampram and Minister of Communications, fired back, accusing the former NPP government of abandoning the facility for eight years.

“My Honourable brother, you seem to have forgotten you were in charge of the country for 8 years preceding January 6th this year. Sit back and take lessons in how to serve from us and stop being a naysayer and Jeremiah (in Nana Addo’s voice).”

Meanwhile, the NSA and Ghana National Fire Service have begun emergency works to restore the stadium.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story