The Ghana Football Association (GFA) Normalization Committee (NC) has condemned what it perceived a shameless attack on female FIFA referee, Theresa Bremensu, during the first leg semi-final match of the Women’s Special Competition between Prison Ladies and Ampem Darkoa Ladies in Sunyani at the weekend.
It has consequently stated that it does not condone any abuse; verbal or physical, towards match officials and takes such attacks very seriously.
According to statement issued by the NC, incidents such as acts of violence on referees are drawbacks in the nation’s strive to normalize Ghana football.
The statement reiterated Dr Kofi Amoah’s caution at the launch of the Special Competition that improvements in the GFA Statutes and Regulations as much as they are necessary would not in and by themselves absolve our football from illegalities, corruption, and uncivilized behaviours and undue aggression.
“Part of our nation’s ability to engender transformation in our football doesn’t have to do with regulation; it has to do with shaping attitudes, shaping cultures, increasing awareness and embracing our common humanity and purpose.”
“Attacking a referee physically must be condemned by all and exorcised from all parts of our football,” it said.
The statement assured the general public that the NC will liaise with the police to ensure appropriate sanction is meted out to the perpetrator(s).
Meanwhile, Normalization Committee in accordance with the GFA Statute will refer the matter to the Disciplinary Committee of the GFA.
It appealed to the football community to help safeguard the beautiful game.