Ghana football legend Malik Jabir has called on Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kurt Okraku to abandon any plans to seek a third term, saying his leadership should be assessed by the trophies won on the pitch.
The GFA amended its constitution at its 2025 Congress to increase the presidential term limit from two terms to three. The change could allow Okraku to remain in office beyond his current tenure if he stands for re-election in 2027 and wins.
Okraku, who became GFA president in 2019, has not confirmed whether he intends to contest the next election.
Speaking to Angel FM, Jabir questioned the decision to alter term limits in football administration and said extending time in office should not take priority over producing results.
“What third term? Look, any association that keeps changing its term of office means maybe we are not too serious,” said Jabir, a former Asante Kotoko player and coach.
Jabir argued that Okraku would have enjoyed broad support to continue as president if Ghana had won major trophies during his time in charge.
“I tell you, if Okraku had won all the cups we need by now, I don’t think anybody would want him to go,” he added.
However, the veteran coach criticised the lack of major silverware during Okraku’s presidency and questioned the Black Stars’ performances, despite repeated changes to the technical team.
“But he hasn’t won even one. Even sometimes it’s difficult to beat a team with seven coaches. What are we waiting for?” Jabir said.
Contest for 2027 election begins
Preparations for the 2027 GFA presidential election are already gathering pace, with four figures having expressed interest in contesting the role.
Samuel Annim Addo, Ralph Gyambrah, Elloeny Amande and former Black Stars captain Andre Ayew have all indicated that they are interested in standing for the presidency.
Former GFA vice-president George Afriyie has not yet decided whether to enter the race.
The constitutional amendment means Okraku could seek a third term, although he has yet to state publicly whether he will use that option. Jabir’s comments have instead focused attention on the GFA’s record of achievement, particularly the absence of major trophies during Okraku’s tenure and the Black Stars’ results under successive coaches.