Jawula breaks silence

AFTER months of leaving soccer enthusiasts and the media speculating, Alhaji M.N.D Jawula, chairman of the Ghana Football Association has finally broken the ice: He will be available for a second term if he is nominated for the job.

In an interview with the Graphic Sports over the weekend, Alhaji Jawula said his decision to consider going for another term stems from his desire to serve the nation, as well as contribute to the future of the progress of Ghana soccer on the international scene.

This announcement by the GFA chairman may put to rest any speculation on his role in the future of Ghana soccer administration, more so when he had earlier told a GFA Congress that he would not seek re-election. Even though constitutionally the term of office for the GFA management board expired last September, it was extended to the end of this month but Alhaji Jawula until now refused to comment on whether he would seek re-election or not.

Explaining his action then, the GFA boss said because of the problems he faced at that time, coupled with the uneasy relationship with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, he lost interest.

“But now, things have changed and after several discussions with well-meaning soccer officials and consideration, I have rescinded my decision and will offer myself for another term, if I’m indeed nominated”.

The GFA boss declined to say if he had been approached about the job by the new government, considering the fact that the nomination for the job has to come from the Sports Ministry as stipulated by law.

“It is too early to say anything on this issue, but in any case, we don’t even have a Minister yet, ‘ he replied in his usual frank and candid mood.

On the election of Mr. Emmanuel Asamoah Owusu-Ansah as the new GHALCA and GFA vice-chairman, Alhaji Jawula described it as good news for the sport and expressed the hope that the new vice will live up to the task.

“He is an honourable gentleman whose knowledge in administration would be very useful to the job. He has a lot to contribute to the further development of the game”, Alhaji said of the new vice.