The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has reconstituted its Executive Board and scheduled an Extraordinary Congress for 19 July, marking a pivotal step in efforts to restore leadership stability and regulatory compliance following the controversial departure of former President, Abraham Kotei Neequaye.
The newly formed board, currently chaired by Acting President Roger Barnor, convened its first meeting with key stakeholders last Thursday. Discussions centred on aligning with directives from the National Sports Authority (NSA) and implementing significant constitutional reforms.
In line with the GBA Constitution—which mandates the inclusion of two co-opted members, a medical officer, a legal advisor, and a communications officer—the board has been expanded and restructured.
The full board now comprises:
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Roger Barnor (Acting President)
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Lord Acquaye (Treasurer)
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Shadrack Acquaye (Acting Secretary)
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Carl Lokko, Alhaji Murtala Tofiki, and Michael Neequaye (Elected Members)
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Nii Gonti and Michael “Golden Mike” Tetteh (Co-opted Members)
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Dr Eric Tetteh (Medical Officer)
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Lawyer Sam Laryea (Legal Advisor)
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Andrew Nortey (Communications Officer)
The new board’s interim mandate is set to run until 22 July, during which time it is expected to oversee crucial transitional decisions, including preparations for fresh leadership elections.
NSA Directives and Election Matters
One of the board’s immediate priorities is to seek clearance from the NSA regarding its earlier directive to suspend the GBA’s planned elections, which had been scheduled for 16 July by the former president.
The NSA had instructed the GBA to halt all electoral activities pending the full implementation of recommendations issued by the Committee of Inquiry into the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Olanrewaju.
With elections currently on hold, the upcoming Extraordinary Congress on 19 July is anticipated to establish a new strategic direction for the GBA. This includes outlining a roadmap for elections, initiating structural reforms, and ensuring full compliance with the NSA’s requirements.
Sources close to the GBA suggest the new board is confident in its ability to demonstrate to the NSA that it possesses both the capability and commitment to restore integrity, unity, and operational discipline within the organisation.
Structural Reforms and Sub-Committees
In addition to electoral matters, the GBA has commenced plans to establish specialised sub-committees. These will focus on critical areas such as security, marketing, and technical operations. The heads of these sub-committees will report directly to the board as part of a broader governance reform agenda.
Barnor Calls for Unity
Addressing the media following the meeting, Mr Roger Barnor—a veteran international boxing referee and judge—emphasised the importance of reconciliation and collective progress.
“Unity and peace were the key themes that resonated throughout both the board meeting and the stakeholder engagements,” Mr Barnor remarked.
“We trust that this message of goodwill will continue to echo throughout the boxing fraternity, so we can together advance the GBA’s objectives in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation,” he added.
