Kurt Okraku (M), per reports will be seeking for a third term in office at the Congress
The Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) 31st Ordinary Session of Congress will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Ghanaman Centre of Excellence in Prampram, bringing together delegates from all 124 members of Congress.
This year’s gathering is expected to be one of the most significant in recent history, with far-reaching reforms on the table that could shape the leadership structure of Ghanaian football for years to come.
While the official agenda is dominated by proposals on presidential term limits and gender representation at the top level, the GFA’s decision to bar the media from live coverage of proceedings has also attracted widespread attention.
Here are the key talking points heading into Congress:
Proposed extension of presidential term limit from two to three terms
The most closely watched proposal seeks to amend the GFA’s statutes to allow presidents to serve up to three terms instead of the current two.
The reform, already approved by FIFA, according to reports, mirrors the statutes of both FIFA and CAF, which permit a maximum of 12 years in office.
If ratified, the change could directly affect current GFA President Kurt Okraku, who is midway through his second term.
Under the new arrangement, he would be eligible to run for a third term when his current tenure ends, extending his leadership well beyond the present eight-year limit.
Supporters of the amendment argue it provides continuity for long-term projects and stability in football administration, while critics fear it could consolidate too much power in the hands of one individual.
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Elevation of women’s representative to 2nd Vice President
In a move aimed at strengthening gender representation in football governance, FIFA has approved a proposal to promote the Women’s Representative on the GFA Executive Council to the position of 2nd Vice President, the third-highest office in the Association.
If adopted by Congress, this would mark a historic step in Ghanaian football, ensuring that a woman holds a senior leadership position with real influence over decision-making.
The change aligns with FIFA’s directive that every confederation must have at least one female representative at the executive level and reflects a broader push to promote inclusivity and equity in global football administration.
Advocates believe the role will empower the women’s game in Ghana, providing stronger advocacy for resources, grassroots development, and elite competition.
No media access to Congress proceedings
In a move that is already stirring debate, the GFA has decided to bar the media from observing the Congress proceedings live.
Journalists will instead be briefed at a press conference immediately after the event concludes.
The GFA says this arrangement will allow for a controlled update and an opportunity to answer media questions, but critics argue it undermines transparency in the Association’s decision-making.
Given the high-profile nature of this year’s agenda, the decision to close the doors to the press could fuel speculation about the motives behind certain reforms.
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Nonetheless, the GFA insists that the post-Congress briefing will provide full clarity on all resolutions passed.
FKA/EB
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