It is an embarrassment - John Mahama slams NPP after Baba Yara Stadium ban

John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has sharply criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) following the Confederation of African Football's (CAF) decision to ban Baba Yara Stadium from hosting matches for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

CAF's ruling means Ghana is currently unable to host international matches at the venue due to concerns over uneven playing surfaces, inadequate drainage, and poor grass coverage.

Speaking to supporters at a rally in the Greater Accra Region on Monday, the former President condemned the NPP Government for what he described as a national embarrassment.

He pointed out that, for the first time in Ghana's history, there is no stadium available for international matches, despite claims of success from the government.

Mahama criticized the government's handling of stadium rehabilitation, noting that $85 million was spent on upgrades for the African Games, yet the results were inadequate.

He also highlighted that $15 million was used for feeding athletes during their 15-day stay, equating to $1 million per day.

“This is an embarrassment. The first time in the history of Ghana, we don’t have a stadium that can host an international match yet they say we should clap for them; they’ve done well. Meanwhile, they spent ($)85 million on stadium rehabilitation for the African Games,” he said.

“When athletes came for the African Games, they spent 15 days in Ghana but ($)15 million was used to feed them. So that means a million dollars was spent every day. Some of the issues you hear are very shocking," he added.

With Ghana set to face Sudan in a crucial AFCON qualifying doubleheader in October, the venue for the first leg remains uncertain.

Reports indicate that Ghana might consider playing the match in neighbouring Togo before travelling to Al-Merrikh Stadium for the return leg.