GBA Elections Heat Up as IMC Releases Official List of Aspirants

The race for leadership of the Ghana Boxing Authority has officially begun following the release of the list of candidates cleared to file nominations for various executive positions ahead of the upcoming elections scheduled for June 4.

The Interim Management Committee (IMC), tasked with overseeing the affairs of Ghana boxing after the resignation of former GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye, announced the names of aspirants contesting for key positions within the country’s boxing administration.

The elections are expected to mark a new chapter for the sport, which has in recent years faced challenges relating to governance, athlete welfare, and development.
The official vetting of candidates is set to take place on Thursday, May 21, at the Accra Sports Stadium, where aspirants will be assessed before the final ballot.

At the center of attention is the presidential race, where two notable figures, Ivan Bruce-Cudjoe and Rabbon Dodoo,are set to battle for the topmost position in Ghana boxing administration. Both men are expected to campaign heavily on promises of reform, transparency, improved welfare for boxers, and international recognition for Ghanaian boxing.

The elections come at a critical moment for the sport. Ghana boxing, once regarded as one of the strongest sporting disciplines in the country, has struggled in recent years to maintain its dominance on the African continent. Stakeholders believe the new leadership must focus on rebuilding trust within the boxing fraternity while creating opportunities for young fighters.

The contest for the First Vice President position also promises to be competitive, with Ofori A. Ernest going head-to-head with Roger Nii Bonney Barnor. The role is expected to be crucial in supporting the next president in shaping policies and administrative direction for the authority.

For the Second Vice President slot, three candidates have thrown their hats into the ring, Dave Bishop, Ellis Quaye, and Moshud Zaid. Their campaigns are expected to focus on technical development, promotion of amateur boxing, and stronger collaborations with gyms and promoters across the country.

Interest is equally high in the race for Executive Board Member positions, where several experienced names within the boxing fraternity are contesting. These include Alhaji Tofiki Muritala, Yusif Mubarak Nanor, Samuel Opoku Amoah, Bernard Tetteh Nartey, Shadrack Acquaye, Derek Nii Asai Ankrah, and Lawrence Carl Lokko.
Observers say the composition of the executive board will play a significant role in determining how effectively the new administration can implement reforms and restore confidence in the authority.

Meanwhile, Nathaniel Awuku Obeng stands unopposed for the Treasurer position, a role considered vital in ensuring financial accountability and transparency within the organization.

The resignation of former President Abraham Kotei Neequaye earlier this year created uncertainty within Ghana boxing circles, prompting the formation of the Interim Management Committee to stabilize operations and oversee the transition process. Since then, stakeholders, promoters, coaches, and boxing enthusiasts have been eager to see a smooth and credible electoral process that could reposition the sport.

Many within the boxing community are hopeful that the upcoming elections will usher in renewed energy and professionalism capable of restoring Ghana’s status as a powerhouse in African boxing.

The June 4 elections are expected to attract significant attention from sports administrators, gym owners, trainers, and boxing fans across the country, especially as the future direction of the Ghana Boxing Authority hangs in the balance.

Official List of Aspirants Released by the IMC

PRESIDENT
Ivan Bruce-Cudjoe
Rabbon Dodoo

1ST VICE PRESIDENT
Ofori A. Ernest
Roger Nii Bonney Barnor

2ND VICE PRESIDENT
Dave Bishop
Ellis Quaye
Moshud Zaid

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS
Alhaji Tofiki Muritala
Yusif Mubarak Nanor
Samuel Opoku Amoah
Bernard Tetteh Nartey
Shadrack Acquaye
Derek Nii Asai Ankrah
Lawrence Carl Lokko

TREASURER
Nathaniel Awuku Obeng