Bechem United president Kingsley Owusu Achau has thrown his support behind the prospect of former Black Stars captain André Ayew contesting the Ghana Football Association (GFA) presidency, describing the experienced footballer as a capable candidate to lead Ghana football.
Ayew has recently been linked with a possible bid for the GFA’s top job ahead of next year’s elections, although the former Ghana captain has yet to officially declare his intention to contest.
The 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup winner, who currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Nania FC, recently disclosed that several football stakeholders have encouraged him to consider entering the presidential race, but insisted he would address the issue at the appropriate time.
Speaking on the prospect of Ayew leading the country’s football governing body, Owusu Achau said the former Olympique Marseille star possesses the experience and leadership qualities needed for the position.
“Well, I believe Dede Ayew is mature, and he has seen it all in Ghana football and world football at large.”
“So if he says he wants to be GFA president, it is refreshing. It’s okay because he knows he is capable of doing it,” the Bechem United president said.
Owusu Achau believes Ayew’s extensive playing career, which has seen him feature at the highest level for both club and country, gives him a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within Ghanaian football.
The former Swansea City, West Ham United, Fenerbahçe and Nottingham Forest forward enjoyed a distinguished international career with the Black Stars, captaining the team for several years while representing Ghana at multiple FIFA World Cups and Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
His potential transition into football administration has generated widespread discussion, with many viewing his experience and global football exposure as valuable assets should he decide to contest the presidency.
Ayew is one of several prominent figures being linked with the upcoming GFA elections. Other names reportedly considering bids include football administrator Samuel Annim Addo, former Brong Ahafo Regional Football Association chairman Ralph Gyambrah, Karela United Chief Executive Officer Elloeny Amande, former GFA vice-president George Afriyie, former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan and ex-midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang Badu.
With the GFA yet to announce the official election timetable and nomination process, attention is expected to intensify in the coming months as prospective candidates position themselves to lead Ghana football into a new era.
