GFA mandate extension is positive - Thompson

Accra, May 6, GNA - Ernest Thompson, Board Secretary of Hearts of Oak has described the mandate extension of the Ghana Football Association (GFA)'s Executive Committee as positive.

Congress, the highest decision making of Ghana football adopted the proposal to extend the mandate of the President and Executive Committee by a further 12 months at its extraordinary meeting on Tuesday. Thompson, who was a delegate at the session, told the GNA Sports the amendments should be looked at in a broader sense rather than suggestions by some persons that it suits the interest of the current administration.

"We should consider it in a broader picture with the future of our game at heart."

He said the World Cup is a major competition on the football calendar and should be given the necessary attention to ensure Ghana gains a ticket.

The Hearts' Board Secretary reckoned that "organizing elections in even years is bound to hamper the progress of our teams at major championships, hence the need to be held in odd years". Thompson said this move will pave way for the elections after 2011 and thereafter to be held in odd years, which won't call for any altercation.

Congress voted overwhelmingly to ensure the tenure of President Kwasi Nyantakyi and the Executive Committee runs till 2011 instead of the mandated 2010.

The extension means Article 30.1 of the GFA Statutes which states "the length of mandate of the President and members of the Executive Committee shall be four football seasons," is amended.