President Mahama briefed on Cairo security status

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GFA Vice President Fred Crentsil has reassured President John Mahama of the safety and security of the Black Stars players and supporters who will be in Cairo, Egypt on Tuesday for the return leg of the final qualifying match for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Mr. Crentsil and the Deputy Minister for Youth & Sports, Joseph Yammin, were at the Flagstaff House on Thursday, at the request of the President, to brief him on the outcome of meetings in Cairo on security arrangements for the game.

The GFA Vice President told the President that the Egyptian authorities have laid out clear security arrangements and briefed the Ghanaian delegation on all the steps. He assured Mr. Mahama that in addition to the arrangements, the National Security team and officials of the Ministry of Youth & Sports are already in Cairo to double check the various arrangements.

Answering questions from President Mahama, Mr. Crentsil said the Ghanaian side has drawn the attention of the host authorities to the use of laser lights on the face of opposing goalkeepers by fans, and have received the assurance of the security team that it will be prevented.

The Deputy Minister briefed President Mahama on plans for supporters traveling to support the team, indicating that per the security arrangements, a chartered flight will transport the supporters into Cairo before the match and will leave shortly after the match.

President Mahama in his remarks said he has been concerned about the unstable political situation in Cairo and the safety of our players and supporters. He also reiterated the fact that since FIFA believes that it will be safe in Cairo, hence turned down Ghana's request for a change of venue, he is hopeful that all will be done to guarantee the safety of the players.

"While we are reassured, we will hold FIFA and the Egyptian authorities responsible for any harm that is caused to any member of our team or supporters", President Mahama stated.

He also called for Muslim prayers in all Mosques on Friday, and Christian prayers on Sunday for the team.