I will not take it lightly if you defame me – Kurt Okraku addresses media critics

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has responded to criticism from the media, emphasising his openness to constructive critique while drawing a firm line against defamation.

In a recent interview on GhOne TV, Kurt Okraku, a former media practitioner himself, addressed concerns about his leadership, underscoring the importance of fair commentary and his intolerance for baseless accusations.

“I’m okay with people critiquing the work we are doing. That’s acceptable, and I am prepared to listen to other minds, even those who do not agree with me,” Okraku stated.

He acknowledged that differing opinions are a natural part of public discourse.

“We are human, and therefore we will not always have a straight line,” he stated.

However, the GFA president was unequivocal in his stance against defamation.

“If you insult me, okay. But if you defame me, I will not take it lightly,” he warned.

He specifically highlighted the harm caused by false accusations, stating, “If I am not a thief and you call me a thief, we will have problems.”

As a former media professional, Okraku emphasised his understanding of the media’s role but urged journalists to maintain ethical standards in their reporting.

Okraku reiterated his commitment to engaging with diverse perspectives to improve the GFA’s work, but made it clear that defamatory statements would face strong pushback.