Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa and former chairman of Asante Kotoko, has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to move beyond rhetoric and take decisive action against hooliganism in football.
Speaking in ‘Scars of Hooliganism, a JoySports documentary exploring the emotional and structural toll of violence in Ghana’s football scene, Mensah expressed frustration with the GFA’s perceived inaction in curbing fan misconduct.
“The FA themselves have got to stop talking so much and do more,” Mensah stated firmly.
He urged the GFA to implement effective measures that have worked in other footballing nations, emphasizing the need for accountability and technology to deter bad behavior.
“The FA should put in the same measures that have been put in around the world,” he suggested. “The clubs have a sense of responsibility, they have to. You see abroad where people receive life bans. There are cameras in place to pick things up.”
Mensah’s comments come at a time when violence in football stadiums continues to tarnish the sport’s reputation in Ghana. His call for stricter measures, such as stadium surveillance and lifetime bans for offenders, aligns with global best practices.
Fans and stakeholders have welcomed Mensah’s candid critique, hoping it will prompt the GFA to prioritize safety and restore confidence in Ghana’s beautiful game.