Herbert Mensah has been suspended as the Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Rugby. This follows a petition to the Board by the Ghana Rugby Union Players Association (GRUPA) which is recognized by their constitution.
The decision was taken today May 11, 2021 at a meeting of the Board to consider the contents of the petition after Mr Mensah allegedly failed to appear before the board to respond to queries raised against his person in the petition.
A statement issued on Tuesday and signed by Bismark Amponsah, the elected Board Member and Appointed General Secretary said
“The Board of Ghana Rugby hereby fulfill the unfortunate and unenviable task to inform all its Stakeholders that the Chairman and CEO of Ghana Rugby has been suspended indefinitely as both Chairman and as CEO at a Board Meeting held on 11 May 2021 via Zoom in accordance with the regulations of its Constitution”.
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It also announced the appointment of James N. A. Nunoo – an elected Vice President and elected Board Member as Acting Chairman and Acting CEO of Ghana Rugby while a Special General Meeting (SGM) has been called for June Tuesday 8, 2021 where a new Board is expected to be elected and appointed.
Amponsah told GhanaNewsOnline.com.gh in an interview that the Board was compelled to arrive at this decision after Herbert Mensah failed to show up on three occasions to defend the allegations made against him by GRUPA.
He said because the allegations in the petition were considered as an attack on his person by the Board they arranged an emergency meeting where the board asked Mr Mensah to respond within 72hrs, however, he failed to respond. It was extended for another 72 hours but he still failed to respond.
While they waited there was a follow-up club petitions from regional Rugby Associations which was demanding form early congress, among others. Mr Mensah was for the third time given another 72 hours but again he failed to turn up.
“His conduct was determined prejudicial according to the board and so the board decided to suspend him so they can find the solutions,” Amponsah noted.
“The Board wishes to assure all its Stakeholders including players, clubs, supporters, sponsors and governing bodies that the affairs of Ghana Rugby will continue without disruption in the best interest of Ghana, Ghana Rugby and Rugby in general.
Acting Board Chair and CEO, James Nunoo, said “Rugby is our love and passion and Rugby must emerge as the winner from this unfortunate moment in the history of Ghana Rugby.”
He urged all stakeholders, especially players and clubs to refrain from speculation or unsubstantiated news or comments to the media and on Social Media platforms. He assured all Stakeholders of full information on developments.
Mr. Nunoo also expressed his appreciation to all those who have supported Ghana Rugby in the past and all those who are still supporting Ghana Rugby to continue to do so.
“Ghana Rugby has achieved memorably under the leadership of Mr. Mensah and a solid platform has been laid to build on that foundation. For that we thank him,” he said.
Source: ghananewsonline.com.gh