Minister Kofi Adams Denies Government Interference in Black Stars Selection

Minister Defends Technical Independence

Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams has dismissed allegations that government officials meddle in Black Stars player selection, affirming that such decisions remain exclusively the coach's responsibility. His comments follow Ghana's painful early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where the team lost 1-0 to Colombia in the Round of 32, reigniting debate over squad composition and technical oversight.

Speaking on Joy FM's News Night on Monday, 6 July, Mr Adams clarified the boundaries between political and technical roles. He stressed that the Ministry provides policy direction and facilitates support through the Ghana Football Association (GFA), but player selection falls entirely within the coach's mandate once appointed.

"If we want the minister to select the players, then there should be no coach again," Mr Adams said, arguing that allowing political interference would undermine accountability and defeat the purpose of employing a professional coach paid to make such decisions.

The Minister emphasised that technical independence is vital for professionalism and long-term success. Without clear separation of roles, he argued, neither ministers nor coaches could be held responsible for performance outcomes.

Claims of external interference in Black Stars selections have surfaced repeatedly after major tournaments. Ghana Football Association officials and successive governments have consistently denied influencing team composition. Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew and other senior players have since called for patience as the squad undergoes rebuilding ahead of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and future World Cup campaigns.