"CAF Executive committee timing is ripe for Nyantakyi" - Kouffie

Khartoum, Sudan, Feb. 21, GNA - Benjamin Kouffie, former Chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has endorsed the candidature of Kwesi Nyantakyi for a place on the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Nyantakyi, President of the GFA is vying for the Zone West B slot alongside Moucharafou Anjorin of Benin and Hima Souley of Niger at the elections to be held on the sidelines of the 33rd CAF Ordinary General Assembly on February 23 in Khartoum and according to Kouffie, he is more than qualified for the top seat.

The former GFA boss told GNA Sports in Khartoum on Monday that his compatriot is 91streets' ahead of his rivals in terms of capabilities. "If you listen to some of the delegates, they feel he is a qualified person and has enough qualities than the others challenging him. His chances are bright, but it is an election and you cannot stick your neck out." No Ghanaian has served on the decision-making body of the continental soccer governing body since 1994 following the death of Sam Okyere of Ashanti Goldfields fame, with Kouffie himself withdrawing at the last hour for suspended Nigerian, Dr Amos Adamu in 2002.

The veteran football administrator has, however, explained that the time is ripe for Ghana to be represented on the CAF Executive Committee following stellar performances by the various national teams.

"Since the death of Sam Okyere, no Ghanaian has been there and that is why it is time we have some one there. Ghana plays an influential role in world football and is duly recognized. "I therefore see no reason why Ghana should not be represented at th= e highest decision making body of African football. His presence on the Committee will also mean that the interest of Ghana football is guaranteed at all times."

The 78-year old Kouffie further said the recent CAF Presidential honou= r conferred on Nyantakyi during the CAF Awards in Cairo, Egypt last December ranks him ahead of his peers.

"Taking into consideration two months ago when he was recognized amon= gst the best FA Presidents in Africa, he stands a good chance." Kouffie insists that the 91clashes' between the GFA and the governm= ent that emanated as a result of the candidature of Nyantakyi will in no way affect his chances. "It was good for Ghana but I do not think it will have an effect. Football Associations will vote so that will not play any role against him.= " Nyantakyi, President of the GFA since December 2005 is seeking to become the fifth Ghanaian to serve on the CAF Executive Committee after Ohene Djan (1961-1966), Kobina Hagan (1961-1962), Nana Fredua Mensah (1968-1972) and Samuel Okyere (1990-1994).