Abdul Salam Yakubu names four potential GFA presidential candidates for 2027

New Edubiase FC president and owner Abdul Salam Yakubu says several football personalities are preparing to contest for the Ghana Football Association (GFA) presidency in next year's election.

Yakubu named Samuel Annim Addo, Ralph Gyambrah, Elloeny Amande and former Black Stars captain Andre Ayew as potential candidates for the position.

Speaking to Kumasi-based Oyerepa FM, the veteran football administrator said he was confident the four would enter the race when the GFA goes to the polls in October 2027.

“I can confirm that Samuel Annim Addo, Ralph Gyambrah, Elloeny Amande and Andre Ayew will contest for the presidency next year,” he said.

Yakubu also suggested that former GFA presidential candidate George Afriyie could consider another attempt, although he had yet to receive confirmation of his intentions.

“I am yet to hear from George Afriyie because people close to him have advised him to contest again,” he added.

The GFA is expected to hold its elective congress in October 2027, with the contest likely to attract significant interest from stakeholders in Ghanaian football.

• Okraku's future remains uncertain

Current GFA president Kurt Okraku is yet to declare whether he intends to seek a third term in office.

The association's constitution has been amended to increase the presidential term limit from two terms to three, potentially allowing Okraku to remain in office beyond his current tenure if he decides to contest and secures re-election.

His decision is expected to be a major talking point as potential challengers consider their options ahead of the election.

• Who are the potential candidates?

Samuel Annim Addo is a football administrator who currently manages former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan. He has previously served as a member of the GFA Executive Council and is also involved in club football.

Ralph Gyambrah has experience in regional football administration, having previously served as chairman of the Brong Ahafo Regional Football Association.

Elloeny Amande is the chief executive officer of Karela United. He has also previously contested for a position on the GFA Executive Council but was unsuccessful.

Andre Ayew, meanwhile, is a former Black Stars captain with an extensive playing career at club and international level. He currently serves as chief executive officer of Nania FC.

Although the names have been put forward by Yakubu, it remains to be seen whether all four individuals will formally declare their candidacies when the election process begins.

With the October 2027 congress approaching, attention is likely to turn to the intentions of prospective challengers and whether Okraku will seek to extend his presidency.