Harry Zakkour Quits Hearts

After almost a decade of unmitigated, sublime service to Accra Hearts of Oak, one of Africa's leading club sides, Harry Zakkour, regarded as the champion chairman of Ghana football has resigned as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the club.

Even though Zakkour's reason is said to be personal, it is been speculated that his resignation was triggered by constant run-in and differences with the Hearts Board over the future direction of the club.


What seems foggy at this point is whether Mr. Zakkour was forced to resign or whether he resigned voluntarily.


Board Chairman, Mr. Ato Ahwoi could not be reached by press time for his comments but his remarks during radio interviews monitored by the Chronicle since the story broke Wednesday, this week, seem to lend credence to the former situation.


Ahwoi, who is also Director of the troubled Cashew and Spices Company Limited (CASHPRO) spoke about restructuring exercise at the club but fell short of confirming a forced resignation.


Harry also downplayed the notion of a forced resignation when Chronicle caught up with him Wednesday afternoon.


He said his exit was calculated to pave way for others to run the club on a more permanent basis since he was playing the role of CEO on part-time basis. I am still a Director of the club, he said.

"I want to make way for somebody to run the club. The club is growing and I am not a full time Chief Executive, I'm just doing it on part-time basis and the club has decided it needs a full time Chief Executive. That is why I have decided to resign."


He further revealed plans to open a consultancy to manage players "from all clubs" and also become a FIFA agent. He also dispelled rumours linking him to Kumasi Asante Kotoko.


Zakkour who joined the Phobian family after decamping from city rivals Accra Great Olympics in a stunning and dramatic fashion has led Accra Hearts of Oak to win several local and international laurels.


Hearts of Oak has won the ABC Premier league title back-to-back for five consecutive seasons and also won both the 2000 Africa Champions League and Super Cup trophies.


Several cups on the local scene including the FA Cup, Champion of Champions are just a few of some of the high profile silverwares displayed in the club's cupboard.