Mourning Ghana Gets Concession As Disaster Probe Starts

The Confederation of African Football has extended the deadline for the submission of Ghana's representatives for the 2002 African Inter-clubs competitions, as the Inquiry set up by president John Kufuor has encountered early problems.

Ghana was granted an extension after a request by the GFA due to the suspension of the league to mourn the loss of 126 football fans who were crushed to death at the Accra Stadium. CAF's deadline for receipt of three clubs is November 30, but Ghana could submit the names for the Champions League, Cup winners and CAF Cups by December 15.

A meeting between the participating clubs and the Professional League Board tentatively agreed on to resume the league on May 27. But the football authorities may have to confirm the date with the commission of inquiry. Some Ghanaians, however, want the league to resume after the probe reports next month.

As the discussions on when to resume the league continues, the inquiry set up to investigate the stadium disaster during a league match between arch-rivals Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak has started has accused witnesses of lack of co-operation.

The probe's commissioner, Sam Okudjeto, frustrated by the early set backs has threatened to take legal action or recommend jail terms against those who fail to show up at the probe.

Aside the no-show staged by some invitees, the commission's sittings has come to life with its first submissions. On it's first day of sitting on Thursday, the Commission heard that security arrangement made prior to the game were not adhered to.

Stadium security chief, Seth Dwamena told the probe that plans to post 10 security men into the stand, where the stampede occurred, were not carried out.

The head of the Ghanaian police, Ernest Poku told the Commission that he has issued a ban on the use of tear gas and rubber bullets at stadia with immediate effect.

The police have taken a large chunk of the blame for the tragic events of May 9, after they fired tear gas to disperse angry fans who were destroying seats in protest at refereeing decisions.

The Ghana Football Association has said a traditional and religious ceremony will be take place at the stadium before the league resumes.