Former Asante Kotoko Board Chairman, Herbert Mensah continues to light the candle to remember victims and families of the May 9th soccer disaster 19 years now.
For victims alive and families left behind the day is one they look forward to for remembrance and assistance to go through life.
A midweek Ghana Premier League match between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium in 2001 ended 2-1 in favour of the Phobians and some fans dissatisfied with the level of officiating started ripping off chairs at the Ade Coker stand.
Security personnel on duty responded with the firing of tear gas into the crowd resulting in a stampede crushing to death 126 soccer fans.
A presidential commission of enquiry set by then President John Agyegum Kufuor administration recommended for the prosecution of six police officer for manslaughter.
They were however freed by the court for lack of credible evidence. But the memory of those who lost their lives that fateful day has been kept alive by former chairman of Kumasi Asante, Herbert Mensah who has made it a yearly ritual to honour them.
“May 9th is terible tragedy, even though there is covid 19 this year, we have to respect the president’s directives on gathering. There would be no match but is so important we do this. I would not be ble to do this without key people like King Edwarpd, Prince Osei, Joseph, Kwame Gabbson, players like Thompson and others”. Mr Mensah told the media.
Through his benevolence, and support from GB foods, Sunda Ghana, Interplant and Ghana Rugby, food and financial support continue to be extended to some of the victims’ whiles some with serious injuries continues to receive medical care both in Ghana and abroad.
