Mr Samson Deen, President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Ghana, has called on political actors and sports stakeholders to work together to end divisions within the sports sector, warning that continued infighting could undermine investment and development.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Mr Deen said increasing political tensions within sports administration was discouraging sponsors and creating an environment that threatened the growth of the sector.
“Politics is dividing us. Politics is destroying our sports,” he stated.
Speaking at a Team Ghana sponsorship event in remarks captured in a separate video, Mr. Deen questioned how corporate organisations could be expected to invest in sports when the sector was characterised by public disputes and uncertainty.
Mr Deen called for a broad-based forum involving political leaders, sports administrators and other industry stakeholders to discuss challenges confronting Ghana sports and chart a common path forward.
According to him, changes in government should not become opportunities for attacks on sports officials perceived to be aligned with previous administrations, stressing that such practices only deepen divisions and hinder progress.
“Let’s come together with a bigger forum where we shall be able to address the issues confronting our sports,” he said.
Mr Deen also challenged sports leaders to match calls for reforms with practical action, urging federations and associations to collaborate and strengthen their institutions.
He encouraged sports bodies to resolve disagreements internally and present a united front to build greater confidence among stakeholders and sponsors.
On funding and governance, Mr Deen said lessons must be drawn from previous challenges surrounding major international competitions, including debates over participation costs, allowances and payments to technical officials.
He expressed the view that past inquiries and discussions into the management of sports should have contributed to stronger systems and improved administration.
Touching on infrastructure, Mr Deen questioned whether current funding levels being discussed would be sufficient to address the country’s stadium rehabilitation needs.
He called for increased investment in sports facilities nationwide and greater efforts to encourage children and young people to participate in sports.
Mr Deen warned that the negative atmosphere surrounding sports administration could discourage young athletes and their families from embracing sports as a pathway for development and excellence. –GNA
