We Never Threatened to Return Home – Black Stars Supporters

The Ghana National Supporters Union (GHANSU), rallying behind the Black Stars in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Ivory Coast, has denied reports that their members threatened to boycott the team’s subsequent matches and return to Ghana over unmet expectations.

The union also discredited reports that it has been compensated by the government to continue rallying behind Chris Hughton’s side.

At a press conference on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, the Public Relations Officer of the group, Apirigu Chakapama, characterized the reports as false.

“We have heard reports that the government has paid $400 to each supporter after threatening to return to Ghana. It is not true.”

Contrary to the reports, he said the authorities met all their accommodation and feeding needs before they arrived in Abidjan.

“The government provided some money for our dinner the day we arrived here. They also provided us with accommodation.”

On reports that some $400 had been disbursed to each member of the supporting group, the PRO said it was unexpected.

“On the next day, we received an unexpected visit from the Accountant who gave us $400 each. Except for one or two persons who were not given the money due to some outstanding issues, everyone took his or her share of the spoil.”

He also addressed concerns raised by Abraham Boakye, alias One Man, concerning his exclusion from the trip, noting he defected from the Union before the AFCON began.

“He started his own supporting club, and all efforts to get him to rejoin us proved futile. We consulted some authorities to bring him back to no avail. How could we have brought him with us on this trip? All other allegations he made at his press conference are untrue.”