Oheneba Nana Asiedu, a journalist and aide to the Ashanti Regional chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has posited that the resignation of legendary Ghanaian footballer Asamoah Gyan from the party is one of many decisions that could cost the party the 2024 elections.

Oheneba Asiedu, who is gravely disappointed by Gyan’s resignation, believes that the resignation could have been triggered by something significant within the camp.

He noted that Asamoah Gyan showed great enthusiasm and passion and that he was shocked by his decision to withdraw from the campaign activities.

He warned that the NPP could be headed for opposition if some persons within the party do not reverse their actions.

“I feel within me that someone has done something bad to Asamoah Gyan. The energy and passion with which Asamoah Gyan embraced his position as a member of the youth and sports committee of the manifesto, there is no way he would have resigned if he had not been treated badly. No one is talking about it because we think when we do that, it will cost us the elections,” he said.

Oheneba Asiedu cautioned appointees of the government not to live under the impression that they will be protected by their friends in the NDC should power get into their hands.

“The party is the one that is going to suffer from these actions. They are making the elections difficult for us. There are people in this government who think they have made a lot of friends in the NDC, so should we lose to them and the NDC comes to power, they will be protected. I want to tell them that if the NDC comes to power, it wouldn't take more than one week for them to regret their actions,” he said.

In a statement issued via his social media handles on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, Asamoah Gyan disclosed that henceforth he will be acting as a former footballer and philanthropist.

While Gyan did not disclose the reason for this move, he promised that he remains committed to the advancement of the Ghanaian youth and will continue to undertake initiatives that will develop the youth.

“I haven’t been fair to the youth and the people of Ghana. Henceforth, I am not affiliated with any political party. I will continue with my humanitarian work and help the youth of Ghana in my own small way. Nothing political. I wish all the political parties a peaceful election on the 7th of December. God bless our homeland Ghana. Thank you,” the caption of the statement reads.

Asamoah Gyan said that through his foundation and the All Regional Games, he will continue to serve the youth of Ghana and help address issues concerning Ghana sports.

“This is not about politics; I am fully independent from political influence. This is about our children, our communities, and our continent. Together, with the support of international organizations, royal families, and philanthropic partners, we can create lasting change that empowers our youth to build the future they deserve.

“Sports saved me and gave me purpose. Its power goes beyond winning or losing—it’s about overcoming setbacks, pushing through challenges, and believing in dreams. I want every young person, no matter their background, to have that same opportunity to realize their greatness.

“Through the Asamoah Gyan Foundation, the Moah Green Foundation, and the All-Regional Games, we will build sports academies, training centers, and mentorship programs that nurture young talent in all sports. More than that, we’ll emphasize education, character, and life skills to prepare our youth for success beyond the field,” parts of the statement read.

EK