Former president of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, says he will appeal a lifetime ban handed him by the governing body of football, FIFA.
FIFA on Tuesday banned Mr Nyantakyi for life from all football-related activities and also fined him 500,000 Swiss Francs (¢2,410, 447.82) for various breaches of the organisation’s ethics as well as conflict of interest.
The ban follows an undercover investigation by investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas, into the conduct of football officials in the country.
The investigation titled Number 12, captured several grim corrupt activities by referees, and some football administrators.
FIFA’s adjudicatory chamber found “M.r Nyantakyi guilty of having violated Article 19 of (Conflict of Interest) Art 21 Bribery and Corruption, and Article 22 Commission of the FIFA Code of Ethics 2012 edition.”
“As a consequence, Mr Nyantakyi has been banned for life from all football-related activities (administrative, sports or any other) at both the national and international level. Additionally, a fine in the amount of CHF 500,000 has been imposed on Mr Nyantaki,” the statement said.
But Mr Nyantakyi, in a press release copied to the media said he will seek redress at the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS).
“My legal advisors are under my instructions to urgently appeal the decision as I think it was unfair, harsh and unwarranted,” the statement added.
Below is a copy of the full statement:
I wish to express my shock and deep sadness after receiving the decision from the FIFA Ethics Adjudicatory Committee on Tuesday.
My legal advisors are under my instructions to urgently appeal the decision as I think it was unfair, harsh and unwarranted.
Even though I have already resigned from all my football positions, it is important I establish the facts with the sole aim of clearing my name.
At this moment I am unable to provide any further details as my lawyers are reviewing the facts for appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the people of Ghana, Africa and indeed across the globe for the overwhelming support and outpouring of sympathy.
Thank you.
