Following reports that Sharaf Mahama, the son of former President John Dramani Mahama, was granted access to the Black Stars dressing room, a number of members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) have expressed strong disapproval of Kurt Okraku, the president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA). This is a surprising development. Some in football and political circles are criticizing Okraku's choice to allow Mahama's son access to such a private area after the incident, which happened during a recent international match, generated a wave of criticism.

The media initially focused on Sharaf Mahama's visit to the Black Stars dressing room after images and videos surfaced of him engaging with players and technical personnel. Some, however, saw it as a harmless display
Members of the NPP, including party spokespersons and other political officials, have expressed their disapproval at what they see as an impolite gesture that could exacerbate political friction in an area that ought to be apolitical. Speaking under anonymity, one NPP member stated, "It sends the wrong signal to let Sharaf Mahama into the dressing room." It's critical that political meddling in national football doesn't occur. It is about Ghana's pride, not the power or connections of one individual.

In his subsequent defense of his choice, Kurt Okraku clarified that Sharaf Mahama's presence in the Black Stars dressing room was not driven by political considerations. He made it clear that it was an act of friendship and goodwill because Mahama, like many of his fans
The uproar surrounding the matter has persisted despite Okraku's response, with some people doubting whether it is appropriate to grant those with political connections such access to the squad. While cheering for the Black Stars is welcome, some contend that it's important to keep things professional and make sure the dressing room is only utilized to discuss the players and their performance.

The current political situation in Ghana adds to the stress surrounding this subject. Since the National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by John Dramani Mahama, and the NPP are in power, any action involving the former president's family is frequently examined for its political ramifications. Some NPP members worry that these actions could give the impression of partiality or excessive
Several political observers have responded to the critiques, arguing that the incident demonstrates the widening rift in Ghanaian politics and society. One observer said, "Given the ongoing rivalry between the NPP and NDC, this issue is bound to be politicized even though football is supposed to be a neutral space."

There has been a mixed response from the public to the occurrence. Some football enthusiasts praised Okraku's inclusive strategy, saying it was a kind and harmless gesture meant to improve the relationship between the Black Stars and their followers. Others, however, concurred with the NPP critics, emphasizing that in order to preserve the team's and the sport's purity, such occasions should not be influenced by politics.
One thing is certain as the discussion goes on: the episode has sparked a larger discussion about how politics and sports interact in Ghana. It appears that Sharaf Mahama's access to the Black Stars dressing room will remain a contentious subject for some time to come, as both sides are vehemently defending their positions.