NSA warns fans against protests at Black Stars vs. Sudan AFCON Qualifier, threatens arrest
10th October 2024
The National Sports Authority (NSA) has issued a firm warning to fans attending the Black Stars vs. Sudan match at the Accra Sports Stadium, cautioning that any form of protest during the game will lead to arrests.
This comes after intelligence indicated that some individuals, protesting against illegal mining, locally known as "Galamsey," intend to use the game as a platform for their demonstration.
The NSA, in a press release, highlighted that such actions would violate the regulations of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which does not permit political or social protests during matches.
The authority stressed that security personnel will be on high alert to detain any individuals attempting to push a protest agenda.
"It has come to the attention of the Authority that some individuals intend to use the game between the Black Stars of Ghana and their Sudanese counterparts as a platform to promote an agenda that CAF frowns upon," the statement read.
The NSA further warned that "any individual or group of persons who openly display any political or pressure group paraphernalia, apparel, or placards at the Accra Sports Stadium will be apprehended by the security apparatus."
Fans have been urged to strictly follow matchday regulations to avoid any consequences, with the NSA emphasizing that full security measures will be enforced before, during, and after the game.
The Black Stars are set to face Sudan today at 4:00 PM (16:00 GMT) in a crucial 2025 AFCON qualifier. Historically, Ghana has dominated their encounters with Sudan, winning 9 out of 13 games, with one draw.