Kotoko Resumed Training Yesterday, Upholds League Boycott Following Fan's Tragic Death

Asante Kotoko’s players and technical staff resumed training on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, following a consultation with the club’s medical team. While the club’s activities are gradually returning to normal, they have made it clear that they will not take part in any official competitive matches until significant steps are taken to improve security and address the concerns that led to the tragic incident involving their supporter, Francis Yaw Frimpong (Nana Pooley), who was fatally stabbed during a match in Nsoatre.

The club’s decision to resume training is part of an effort to maintain the physical and mental well-being of the players during this challenging period. In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 18, the club explained that their training would focus on fitness and readiness, but they emphasized that this resumption does not alter their stance on participating in official matches.

“After thorough discussions with our medical department, we have been advised that the senior team should resume training to ensure the physical and mental health of our players,” the statement read. “While we are still grieving from the recent events, we recognize the importance of keeping our squad fit and focused, as we continue to demand justice for the senseless acts of violence committed against our supporters and our club.”

The club had previously suspended all football activities following the tragic loss of Nana Pooley, an Asante Kotoko fan who was killed during the Ghana Premier League match between Kotoko and Nsoatreman in Nsoatre. To honor Nana Pooley, the club held a memorial service at the Baba Yara Stadium last Sunday, where they observed a week of mourning.

In their public statement, the club reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing justice for the loss of their supporter and condemned the violent actions that took place. “Asante Kotoko remains deeply affected by the senseless death of our beloved supporter, Francis Yaw Frimpong,” the club said. “The grief we feel from that tragic day is still raw, and our resolve to see justice served remains unwavering.”

The club has actively engaged with various government officials in an attempt to ensure that the perpetrators of this crime are held accountable. They have met with the Minister of Sports, Hon. Kofi Adams, the Minister of Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mubarak, and the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. These meetings have given the club some assurance that the case is being taken seriously and that steps are being taken to ensure the responsible parties are brought to justice.

However, the club also called on the Attorney General’s office to act with more urgency in pushing the case forward. “We urge the Attorney General’s department to intensify its efforts and pursue this case with the seriousness it deserves. Justice delayed is justice denied, and we will not rest until those responsible for this tragic loss face the full consequences of their actions,” the statement continued.

While Asante Kotoko’s management made it clear that their team’s training would resume, they also emphasized that this decision would not change their position on competitive matches. “Our stance on participating in official matches remains unchanged,” they stated. “We will not return to competitive action until we see meaningful and decisive steps being taken to ensure the safety of our supporters and the integrity of the sport.”

Asante Kotoko expressed their firm belief that they will not be swayed by external pressures and will continue to stand firm on their principles. “We will not be moved from our position. Our commitment to justice for Nana Pooley and our desire to ensure such violence is never repeated are non-negotiable,” they affirmed.

The statement concluded with a pledge to continue representing strength and unity. “Asante Kotoko is a symbol of resilience, and we are dedicated to honoring the memory of Francis Yaw Frimpong. We are committed to ensuring that our supporters never have to face such violence again and that the future of our game is secure and safe for all.”