Division One League side Hohoe United F.C. has formally petitioned the Referee's Appointment Committee of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to reconsider their decision to appoint referee Emmanuel Asare Darko for the upcoming week 24 fixture against Golden Kicks F.C. The petition, submitted on April 17, 2025, raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest, impartiality, and the integrity of the sport.
Hohoe United, currently leading Zone Three with 51 points, three points ahead of Port City Football Club and seven points ahead of Okwawu United, their closest rivals, argues that the appointment of referee Darko may compromise the fairness of the match. The club's statement, signed by Tom Amewu Duglu, highlights that referee Darko resides in the Eastern Region of Ghana, the same region as Okwawu United and Port City Football Club.
The club questions whether Darko's regional ties could impact his ability to remain impartial, given the strong regional support for teams in the Division One League. "The likelihood that a resident of the region can be a fan of one of these two clubs or any other club in the region cannot be ruled out," the statement reads. Hohoe United therefore strongly objects to the appointment of a referee from the same region as their closest rivals.
Furthermore, Hohoe United expresses concern about the increasing interest of third parties in their affairs. The club notes that Francis Ofori, a known official of Port City F.C., was present at their recent match against Attram de Visser, accompanied by a section of Port City supporters. This observation has raised suspicions about potential connections between referee Darko and the Eastern Regional Football Association, which may influence the governing body's decisions.
The petition also highlights a potential conflict of interest, citing the governing body's perceived intentions and its duty to ensure fair play and transparency. "Mr. Darko's connection to the Eastern Regional Football Association and the perceived interest of the regional football body in the welfare of both clubs [Okwawu United and Port City F.C.] means appointing him to superintend over a game involving a competitor of these clubs flies in the face of fair play, transparency, and integrity of the sport."
In light of these concerns, Hohoe United has requested that the Referee's Appointment Committee rescind its appointment of Emmanuel Asare Darko for their week 24 encounter against Golden Kicks F.C. The match is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Tuba Astro Turf.
The Ghana Football Association has yet to respond to the petition, which was submitted shortly after the appointment committee announced Darko's selection. The outcome of this petition may have significant implications for the match and the overall integrity of the Division One League.
This development highlights the complexities and challenges of ensuring fair play and transparency in sports competitions. As the petition makes clear, the perception of impartiality is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the sport. The response from the Ghana Football Association will be closely watched by fans and stakeholders alike.
In conclusion, Hohoe United's petition against the appointment of referee Emmanuel Asare Darko raises important questions about the fairness and transparency of the Division One League. The club's concerns about potential conflicts of interest and regional bias must be addressed to ensure the integrity of the competition.
Key Points:
- Hohoe United petitions GFA over referee appointment in Division One League match
- Concerns raised about potential conflicts of interest and impartiality
- Referee Emmanuel Asare Darko resides in the same region as Hohoe United's closest rivals
- Petition highlights potential connections between Darko and the Eastern Regional Football Association
- Outcome of the petition may impact the integrity of the Division One League
blogpay
Total Comments: 0