By Kwame Bediako
The Ghana Swimming Association (GSA) has strongly rejected a decision by the National Sports Authority (NSA) to withdraw its recognition, describing the move as shocking, unlawful and damaging to the future of aquatics development in the country.
In a detailed response to a letter dated January 7, 2026, the GSA says the decision violates established sports regulations and undermines years of government and stakeholder investment in swimming.
According to the GSA, the NSA failed to follow mandatory procedures under the Sports Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2477), which require prior notice and an opportunity for a sports body to respond before any cancellation of registration or revocation of licence.
The association insists it was given no formal notice, no reasons, and no chance to be heard, rendering the withdrawal of recognition procedurally invalid and unenforceable.
The association further argues that the NSA’s decision lacks substantive legal grounds, noting that allegations of “irregularities” were made without citing specific breaches of the law.
It also criticised the Authority for relying on what it calls extraneous factors, including the alleged inaction of World Aquatics, stressing that international bodies have no legal standing in the NSA’s domestic regulatory decisions under Ghanaian law.
Beyond legal concerns, the GSA warned that the decision could have serious consequences for swimming development in Ghana.
It highlighted the government’s heavy investment in the Borteyman Aquatics Centre, which has hosted major continental championships and helped Ghana emerge as a regional hub for swimming.
The association noted that Ghana has been awarded hosting rights for the 2026 African Junior, Senior and Masters Swimming Championships, achievements it says are now at risk due to the NSA’s action.
The GSA has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the NSA’s letter and the full restoration of its recognition, warning that failure to comply by January 20, 2026, will trigger an appeal to the Minister of Sports and possible court action.
The association also cautioned that ongoing matters related to the dispute are already before the High Court and that any action undermining the court’s authority could lead to contempt proceedings.
