WRFA Dismisses Tarkwa Spartans FC Protest Against Tarkwa United FC

The Western Regional Football Association (WRFA) Disciplinary Committee has dismissed a protest filed by Tarkwa Spartans FC against Tarkwa United FC, ruling that it was submitted beyond the stipulated deadline. The decision was made on February 25, 2025, at the WRFA office in Sekondi.

Background of the Case

Tarkwa Spartans FC lodged a protest on February 4, 2025, alleging that Tarkwa United FC fielded unqualified players in their match played on February 1, 2025, at the Cyanide Astro Turf in Tarkwa.

Ruling and Legal Basis

The committee, chaired by Constantine K. M. Kudzedzi, Esq., reviewed the case and determined that the protest was filed out of time. As per Article 35 of the Regional Football Association League Regulations, 2021, and Article 20 of the Administrative Instructions/By-Laws for the 2024/2025 Western Regional Second Division League, a protest must be submitted within two calendar days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.

Since the match was played on February 1 (Saturday), the protest deadline was 5:00 PM on February 4, 2025. However, Spartans FC submitted their protest at 6:41 PM, exceeding the deadline. Citing Article 80 of the Ghana Football Association Statutes, 2019, which governs time computation, the committee ruled the protest inadmissible.

Sanctions

1. The protest was declared frivolous and dismissed.

2. Tarkwa Spartans FC was fined GH¢1,500, payable within 14 days from the ruling date.

The WRFA Disciplinary Committee emphasized the importance of clubs adhering to protest timelines to ensure fair proc

eedings in the league.