Kotoko, Charles Taylor case in new twist

The controversial Charles Taylor saga took a dramatic turn last Thursday when instead of sitting on the case, the Disciplinary Committee of the GFA spent hours listening to submissions from lawyers of Hearts and Kotoko as to whether or not the Porcupine Warriors have the right to proceed with a protest.

Ernest Thompson, representing Hearts argued with vehemence that Kotoko should have protested within 72 hours, that once they failed to do so, the Disciplinary Committee should dismiss their protest.

Kotoko’s lawyer dismissed Ernest Thompson’s bluff, arguing that the GFA bye-laws clearly stipulate that in the specific case of unqualified player, the aggrieved party has 14 days within which to protest.

The committee upheld Kotoko’s stance and decided to sit on the case next Thursday.

Kotoko contend that Charles Taylor attracted yellow cards in the 4th, 7th and 18th week matches which made him ineligible to feature in the 19th week Kotoko versus Hearts match in Kumasi.

In rather unexplained circumstances, the 18th week yellow card never reflected in the records of the FA. Referee J.K. Essel, who handled the match, failed to put in an appearance at the hearing but has been asked to show up at next Thursday’s sitting.