Former President of the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF), Mr. Bernard Quartey, has stated that he deserves praise for his leadership and financial management, rather than criticism. Mr. Quartey responded to recent accusations against him by highlighting what he calls a legacy of success and a strong foundation for amateur boxing in Ghana.
Mr. Quartey explained that his tenure was marked by a serious challenge of lack of funds. He noted that no money was available when he took office, and he had to actively seek out resources to keep the Federation running.
“I should be commended for managing the finances well,” Mr. Quartey said. “There were no funds coming in; I had to go out and look for money to make things happen.”
He pointed to several key achievements during his time in office. Under his leadership, the GBF acquired an international-standard boxing ring. He also emphasized the growth of the sport, with boxers and officials gaining valuable international experience. This investment in people, he said, led to Ghana’s success at major competitions, including two Silver medals at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and four Gold medals at the 2023 African Games.
Mr. Quartey credited the current success of several top Ghanaian boxers to the foundation laid during his tenure. He named Samuel Takyi, Henry Malm, Theophilus Allotey, Joseph Commey, Abu Kamoko, and Jonathan Tetteh as examples of boxers who developed through the amateur system he helped build.
Regarding financial accountability, Mr. Quartey was firm that he had followed the proper procedures. He stated that he worked directly with the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), where every expense had to be justified and approved. He also noted that a full financial report was presented and applauded at the handing-over congress to the previous administration.
“Everything was clearly stated, approved, and applauded before I left office,” he stressed.
He further dismissed calls for accountability from current officials, particularly Second Vice President Solomon Otoo Lartey. The former GBFA President argued that he has already accounted to the official bodies that provided the funds, such as the GOC and the Local Organizing Committee for the African Games. He suggested that those questioning him should instead be focused on their new responsibilities.
“A leader must lead by finding the funds to work, and I did exactly that,” Mr. Quartey said. “I have handed over leadership, so the new leaders must carry on. My work is done.”
According to him, claims that he ran a “one-man show” by focusing on the results achieved, stating that the team’s success on the international stage is what truly matters. Mr. Quartey said any criticism was simply due to politics.
Looking back, Mr. Quartey expressed pride in making amateur boxing more interesting and encouraging. He wished the current executive board well but urged them not to tarnish the reputation of the previous administration
“No one’s hard-earned reputation and image must be tarnished,” he concluded. “We all came to serve, and we did our best to put Ghana on the map.”