In a long-awaited development, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has settled outstanding salary arrears owed to former Black Stars head coach Charles Kwablan Akonnor, disbursing a total of $120,000.
C.K. Akonnor, who managed the senior national team from January 2020 until his dismissal in September 2021, had been awaiting the payment for several months following his exit. The arrears represented unpaid salaries accumulated during his tenure as coach of the Black Stars.
Akonnor’s appointment came at a critical time for Ghanaian football, following the departure of Kwesi Appiah.
His stint, which was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and a congested international calendar, saw mixed results which contributed to his removal after a disappointing run of results in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The payment brings an end to a contentious chapter, which had raised concerns about the treatment of local coaches and the Sports Ministry's commitment to contractual obligations.
Speaking on the matter, a source at the Ministry confirmed to Kickgh.com that the payment was made in full, with Akonnor's assistant David Duncan also receiving $40,000 in unpaid wages, signaling the government’s intent to resolve legacy debts owed to coaches and technical staff.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has yet to comment on the payment, but the development is likely to be welcomed by many within the football fraternity who have advocated for fairness and accountability in the sport’s administration.
By: Pascal Amoah
