Sammy Anim Addo, the president of Young Apostles, a Ghana Premier League team, has recently found himself in hot water with the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) Disciplinary Committee. The former FA Executive Council member has been charged for comments he made on social media about referee Maxwell Hanson, accusing him of being the GFA’s agent for “dirty works.”
The controversy stemmed from Hanson’s controversial officiating during Accra Lions’ 0-1 loss to Dreams FC, prompting Anim Addo to call for urgent reforms in the Ghana Premier League. However, the situation took a turn for the worse as Dreams FC accused Accra Lions of hypocrisy in response to the calls for reform.
Details of the GFA charge
The GFA charge against Samuel Anim Addo includes a breach of Articles 34(6)(d) and 38(8)(c) of the GFA Ghana Premier League Regulations, 2019. The charge alleges that Anim Addo’s commentary on social media constituted misconduct that brought the name of the GFA and the Ghana Premier League into disrepute. It further alleges that his comments included accusations against a match official without proof. Anim Addo has until January 13, 2024, to respond to the charges.
Anim Addo’s response
Speaking on Joy News’ Prime Sports, Anim Addo expressed his intention to respond to the charges in due course. He emphasized his respect for the rules of the game and stated that he would comply with the regulations in his response. However, he stood by his belief that Ghanaian football is in decline and called for immediate action to address the issues plaguing the system.
As the deadline for his response approaches, the football community eagerly awaits Anim Addo’s formal reply to the charges. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the future of football in Ghana, underscoring the importance of upholding the integrity and standards of the sport.