On the eve of the new football season, Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has issued a rallying call to referees, urging them to anchor the league in integrity, professionalism, and discipline.
Speaking during a virtual engagement with match officials, Okraku reminded referees that their performances hold the power to shape the credibility of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) and other domestic competitions. The session also featured Executive Council member Frederick Acheampong, Referees Manager Alex Kotey, and Referees Committee Chairperson Christine Enyonam Zigah.
“Let me be clear and without any form of ambiguity: I will not stand in the way of justice if any of you engage in unprofessional or unethical conduct,” Okraku warned.
He stressed that the strides made by the GFA must not be undermined by poor officiating.
“Integrity is a key demand, and we will not compromise on anything that threatens the momentum, energy, and gains made ahead of the new campaign. Prepare thoroughly and deliver performances that satisfy and earn the admiration of all stakeholders,” Okraku noted.
🌍 President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has hailed Arthur Wharton, the world’s first black professional footballer, as a global trailblazer during the soft launch of his 160th anniversary celebration in Accra.
He also urged the UK to embrace football as a powerful tool for… pic.twitter.com/3BUtf52YlZ
— 🇬🇭 Ghana Football Association (@ghanafaofficial) September 12, 2025
The GFA boss expressed optimism that the association’s recent welfare interventions, ranging from improved financial packages to structured support systems, will give referees the stability they need to excel.
“With your full cooperation, we can achieve the best Premier League season ever, free from needless controversies,” he added.
Acheampong echoed the President’s sentiments, praising the GFA’s investment in referee welfare and challenging officials to reciprocate with absolute professionalism.
For the 2025/26 campaign, the GFA has rolled out enhanced welfare measures that cover referees in the GPL, the Access Bank Division One League, and the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League.
The Ghana Premier League curtain rises on Friday, September 12, promising a season that blends renewed energy with a firm commitment to fairness across all competitions.
