Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko SC have jointly announced the preparation of a detailed position paper for the Ghana Football Association (GFA), which emphasises crucial recommendations to elevate the Ghana Premier League (GPL).

This was communicated in a statement dated February 5, 2025.

“In a strategic meeting held in Accra, involving Asante Kotoko's Interim Management Committee (IMC) and selected members from the Hearts of Oak Board and Management, both clubs engaged in a thorough discussion on key issues facing the league,” the statement said.

“The two esteemed teams have underscored their unified dedication to tackling the pressing concern of security at match venues throughout the league. This announcement comes ahead of their anticipated engagement with the Executive Committee of the GFA on Thursday 6th February, 2025.”

The clubs said the “tragic and unfortunate” violent disturbances of Sunday, February 2, which resulted in the death of Pooley, a die-hard Asante Kotoko fan, was “a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of all football fans”.

“Both Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko SC are resolute in their belief that such incidents must be prevented in the future,” the statement went on.

The statement said during the meeting, the Hearts Board commiserated with Kotoko, assuring they would work with Kotoko and other stakeholders to ensure Pooley’s tragic death was not in vain.

Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko have urged the adoption of enhanced security protocols and other measures, and expressed their eagerness to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders, including government, the Ghana Football Association, law enforcement agencies, and dedicated supporters, the statement noted.

“Their shared goal is to ensure that football remains a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved,” the statement said.

“The clubs earnestly call upon the Ghana Football Association to take prompt and decisive action on the recommendations outlined in their position paper,” the statement concluded.