Ghanaian football giants Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak have issued a joint statement calling for an autonomous Premier League, seeking to end the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) control over the competition.
The two most successful clubs in Ghanaian football argue that an independent league, managed by an external body, would be in the best interest of the sport.
They believe this move would improve governance, attract better sponsorship, and enhance overall professionalism.
“The league should be made autonomous and run by an independent management team,” the statement read, signed by Kotoko’s IMC Chairman Nana Apinkra Akwasi Awuah and Hearts of Oak Board Chairman Togbe Afede XIV.
The call for an autonomous league is not new but has gained momentum with Ghana’s two biggest clubs now leading the charge.
Their statement raises concerns about the current state of football administration in the country, hinting at dissatisfaction with the GFA’s handling of league affairs.
Football experts argue that Ghana’s domestic league has struggled with financial instability, poor infrastructure, and inconsistent broadcasting deals.
Kotoko and Hearts believe a breakaway league would allow clubs to negotiate better commercial agreements without GFA interference.
One of the key issues raised by the clubs is financial transparency, particularly regarding sponsorship and television rights revenue.
“The GFA should disclose to Kotoko and Hearts of Oak before the commencement of each football season the total number of our matches that will be televised to ensure that a fair percentage of the revenue from sponsorship and TV rights deals is determined and duly paid to us,” the statement emphasized.
The clubs also called for the exemption of match proceeds from VAT and other deductions, arguing that taxation negatively impacts club revenues.
The Ghana Football Association has yet to respond to the demands, but the proposal could spark a major debate within Ghanaian football.
While some argue that an autonomous league could lead to a more commercially viable competition, others fear it could create division and weaken the league’s structure.
With Kotoko and Hearts leading the charge, the discussion on league independence is likely to intensify in the coming months, setting the stage for a potential showdown with the GFA.