The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is being urged to consider a change in the leadership of Ghana Beach Soccer, with Abdul Hayye Yartey emerging as a proposed replacement to steer the affairs of the sport following the confirmation of investigations surrounding the current Beach Soccer Chairman, Yaw Kusi Gyamfi Awere.
The call comes amid reports linking Mr Awere to allegations surrounding visa-related financial transactions, which have raised questions about accountability and the reputation of individuals entrusted with the administration of Ghanaian sports.
Although the allegations remain subject to ongoing investigations, the situation has prompted concerns about whether he should continue exercising leadership responsibilities within the beach soccer structure while the matter remains unresolved.
For a national sporting programme that requires public confidence, sponsorship and strong institutional support, the GFA has a responsibility to ensure that its leadership is not overshadowed by controversies that could undermine its progress.
The Association must therefore consider whether it would be appropriate for Mr Awere to step aside from his committee responsibilities pending the outcome of the relevant investigations.
Such a decision should not be interpreted as punishment or an admission of wrongdoing. Rather, it would provide an opportunity for the allegations to be addressed without unnecessary distractions to the development of beach soccer.
One name that deserves consideration in any leadership review is Abdul Hayye Yartey.
Mr Yartey could be considered for a leadership role as part of a broader effort to introduce a fresh approach to the administration of Ghana Beach Soccer. His suitability, like that of any other candidate, should be assessed against his experience, administrative abilities and plans for developing the sport.
The Black Sharks need a stable administrative environment that will allow players and technical officials to concentrate on preparations for international competitions, including the Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations.
Ghana cannot afford to allow controversies involving sports administrators to divert attention from the welfare of players, preparations for competitions and the long-term growth of the game.
There are equally important questions about the leadership changes that have taken place within Ghana Beach Soccer over the years, particularly the transition from former committee chairman Yaw Ampofo Ankrah to Mr Gyamfi Awere.
It is well documented that Ampofo Ankrah played a major role in the administration and promotion of beach soccer for over 15 years and the circumstances surrounding subsequent leadership changes continue to attract interest.
Suggestions that personal ambitions or disagreements may have influenced those changes should, however, be treated cautiously unless supported by credible evidence.
What is important is for the GFA to demonstrate that leadership appointments are guided by the interests of the sport rather than personal relationships or competing ambitions.
The Association must also clarify whether it has received any official communication from investigative authorities concerning Mr Awere and whether the allegations have prompted an internal assessment of his continued role.
A temporary leadership change, if justified by the facts and the Association’s regulations, could help maintain confidence while allowing the investigative process to proceed without interference.
At a time when transparency and accountability have become central to discussions about sports administration in Ghana, the Association has an opportunity to demonstrate that the interests of the national team come before those of any individual.
Mr Kusi Awere deserves a fair process and the opportunity to respond to the allegations concerning him. Equally, Ghana Beach Soccer deserves leadership arrangements that command public confidence.
The GFA should seriously consider asking Mr Awere to step aside pending the conclusion of the investigations and assess Abdul Hayye Yartey as a possible replacement.
Ultimately, the future of Ghana Beach Soccer must be the priority.
