Richard Akpokavie Esq. won the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) presidency with 44 votes, beating Michael Odum Aggrey’s 19.

The election took place in Committee Hall 1 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

During his acceptance speech, Akpokavie stressed the role of unity and teamwork in the progress of Ghanaian sports. “We must remain united as the leading voice representing the interest of the many young people who play sports,” he said. “Working as a team or unit is crucial to our success.”

Akpokavie emphasized the necessity of adhering to the Olympic principles of Excellence, Respect, and Friendship, which underpin the Olympic Movement. He also underscored the significance of settling disputes via alternative dispute resolution, as opposed to traditional courts.

The incoming President committed to prioritizing the safety and empowerment of athletes and women. “It is completely unacceptable that our athletes’ voices are not heard at congress and on the executive board,” he said. “We have to change this immediately.”

Akpokavie highlighted the necessity for more women in sports federation leadership roles. “In this modern era, it is sad that we have so many few women in leadership in the federations,” he said. “In the next 4 years, this must change.”

The President reassured ANOCA, the Sports and Recreation Minister, and the National Sports Authority’s Director General that the GOC is committed to partnering for improved Ghanaian sports.