Netizens reaction to Asamoah Gyan's decision to step away from partisan politics

The announcement by a former Captain of the Ghana Black Stars, Asamoah Gyan to step away from partisan politics, has sparked diverse reactions on social media.

Gyan, who until his formal declaration had been serving as the chairman of the Youth and Sports sub-committee for the manifesto team of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flag bearer for the 2024 elections, explained he wanted to focus on philanthropy and humanitarian efforts.

In a statement released on September 11, 2024, Gyan outlined his vision for youth development through sports and philanthropy, emphasising his desire to distance himself from political affiliations. 

"This is not about politics; I am fully independent from political influence. This is about our children, our communities, and our continent," the former Sunderland striker emphasised.

In a tweet accompanying his official statement, Gyan stated, "I haven’t been fair to the youth and the people of Ghana. Henceforth, I am not affiliated with any political party. I will continue with my humanitarian work and help the youth of Ghana in my own small way. Nothing political. I wish all the political parties a peaceful election on December 7, 2024. God bless our homeland Ghana. Thank you."

READ: Asamoah Gyan steps away from partisan politics after serving on Bawumia manifesto committee

The announcement has however been met with mixed reactions particularly on X, where he is one of the top trends on Wednesday. 

While there are those who support the football legend for taking a bold step and denouncing partisan politics which they believe has been the downfall of the nation, others have expressed skepticism describing the move as a ploy to distance himself from a party whose prospects in the upcoming elections are looking bleak. 

Others also accused him of simply leaving because he did not get what he really wanted; whatever they believe that may be. 

Here are some of the reactions on X. 

“It's alright to be affiliated to a political party, you are a Ghanaian and have that right.
What is not right is supporting and defending their wrongful acts. Being affiliated to a political party doesn't mean you can't be philanthropic. All the best on your decision” One user said. 

“I'm very sure something didn't go in your favor. A typical Ghanaian,” Another stated. 

“After steering defeat, you have to jump the boat, but we won't forget it. The Internet doesn't forget & it's you who introduces partisan politics into the Black Stars camp,” a tweet reiterated. 

“There is nothing wrong with being affiliated with a political party because you don't influence us in our decision-making on who to vote for. I think * you are overrating your
"popularity" or "celebrity" tag too much. You can contest for MP if you think you are popular.”

“It means people in politics are not fair to the youth of this country. It is not a secret but the hard truth is difficult to tell in Ghana,” A user lamented.