MANHYIA PALACE: Kotoko?s Structural Problem

Could you imagine Manchester United being run from the Buckingham Palace? An ancient-old, tradition-bound institution making important decisions for a modern day soccer club just does not wash.

In a monarchy like Manhyia or Buckingham, tradition and custom take precedence over business or profits. As such speed in decision making is almost non-existent, and disputes are settled in long, drawn-out fashion. A modern soccer club like Kotoko or Manchester cannot survive electronic-speed business culture under the leadership of such a tradition-bound institution. Not surprisingly, in the last two decades, Kotoko has been dogged by problems that could have been avoided by prompt decision making and strong leadership.

In the 80?s, the Opoku Afriyie saga with Bawuah became another lengthy, protracted affair ahenfie-style that threatened team unity. Similarly, Francis Kumi who services were crucial to Kotoko?s ?82 African cup quest was let go before the crucial final and Kotoko paid a heavy price.

The Georgido saga also undermined the club. How he was hired and the circumstances surrounding his firing was all done in an unprofessional manner. In the end, Georgido was bitter and he undermined the club by selling the top players to other clubs.

Now in January 2003, few weeks away from a new premier league season and continental assignment, Kotoko is without a confirmed leadership. So good for Africa?s most famous soccer club to begin a new season after underachieving for almost a decade, and yearning to restamp its authority in national and continental football. All because in a typical Manyhia Palace manner where tradition comes first, decision making is slow; business and profit motive is secondary. A business meeting that would last 30 minutes will last 4 hours at Manhyia. Manhyia is a venerable institution, almost a sacred and mythical place, but its culture does not bode well for today?s fast-paced business culture, where one hour wasted could mean the loss of a fortune. Kotoko?s recruitment plans and many others for 2003 are on hold because of the continued uncertainty about who would lead the club in ?03.

Kotoko has a structural problem and the team?s ability to remain competitive is in doubt if the status quo stays put. The best solution is for Manhyia to delegate authority to a professional foundation that would run Kotoko like a business. Such a foundation should possess the sole responsibility of hiring and firing management and board, as well as resolving disputes between the management the board of directors.