In response to recent claims made by former Black Stars coach Charles Kwablan Akonnor regarding unpaid salary arrears, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has issued a swift rebuttal.
Akonnor denied receiving the alleged $100,000 payment from the Sports Ministry upon the termination of his contract as Black Stars coach in September 2021, contrary to what was stated by Mustapha Ussif, the Sports Minister.
During a press briefing last week, Mustapha Ussif clarified the situation, stating that both C.K. Akonnor and Milovan Rajevac were paid $100,000 each immediately after the termination of their contracts. However, the Ministry acknowledged that they still owe both coaches, attributing the delay in payments to constraints of funds. Ussif further assured that they have a payment schedule in place and will settle the outstanding dues as soon as they receive the necessary funds.
In response to the minister’s statement, Akonnor countered that he did not receive the mentioned amount and refrained from disclosing the actual sum paid to him. He also emphasized that his contract is still with the Football Association (FA) and invited the minister to review the agreement before making such claims.
Addressing the issue during an interview on Happy FM, Charles Amofa, the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, stated that they are committed to resolving the matter and settling the outstanding payments owed to C.K. Akonnor. He acknowledged that they have not been able to adhere to the payment schedule due to financial constraints, but assured that as soon as funds become available, both former coaches will receive their dues.
The Ministry further outlined the details of how they have been settling the arrears of the former Asante Kotoko coach, C.K. Akonnor.
Despite the current financial challenges faced by the Ministry, they are determined to honor their commitment and ensure that all outstanding payments are made in a timely manner.
By: Ahashie Judeliver Eli
