Kumasi Mayor Vows to Become Asante Kotoko CEO, Rallies Support Ahead of Hearts Clash
The Mayor of Kumasi, popularly known as King Zuba, has declared his ambition to one day become Chief Executive Officer of Asante Kotoko SC, describing the position as the highest honour one can attain in the Ashanti Kingdom aside from traditional authority under Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Speaking as a guest on OTEC FM’s evening sports show hosted by Osei Kwaku Kanu on Friday, February 13, King Zuba said leading Kotoko would be the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
“I will become CEO of Asante Kotoko before I die,” he stated confidently, adding that in the Ashanti Region, the most prestigious role one can hold—outside of chieftaincy under the Asantehene—is to lead the Porcupine Warriors.
King Zuba, officially known as Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, described Kotoko as a great club with a rich history both in Ghana and internationally, emphasizing its immense contribution to Ghanaian football. According to him, the club represents pride, identity, and heritage for the people of Asanteman.
Ahead of Kotoko’s clash with their fiercest rivals, Hearts of Oak SC, the Kumasi Mayor, together with the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, visited the training grounds of the Porcupine Warriors to offer moral support and motivate the players. He encouraged the team to remain focused and determined as they prepared for the crucial encounter.
In a further show of commitment, King Zuba purchased hundreds of match tickets for supporters of the Porcupine Warriors to ensure massive backing at the stadium. The gesture was widely welcomed by fans, who praised him for demonstrating practical support beyond words.
He disclosed that he has been a staunch supporter of the Kumasi-based side since infancy and pledged to continue supporting the club with his resources and influence whenever the need arises. He stressed that Kotoko must remain competitive both locally and on the continental stage.
Asante Kotoko, founded in 1935, is one of Ghana’s most successful and widely supported football clubs. The club has won multiple Ghana Premier League titles and several FA Cups. On the continental front, Kotoko has twice won the CAF Champions League (formerly the African Cup of Champions Clubs) and has reached several other African finals, cementing its status as one of Africa’s historic football institutions.
The club’s rivalry with Hearts of Oak remains one of the most intense in African football, often drawing huge crowds and national attention.
A former sports commentator with a strong media background, King Zuba transitioned into public service with a distinctive blend of charisma and drive. His ability to energize local governance and connect with grassroots communities has drawn attention, and he continues to command respect across both political and sporting circles in the Ashanti Region.
King Zuba’s comments and recent show of support have sparked conversations among football enthusiasts, with many praising his passion and dedication to the club. Observers say his actions highlight the deep emotional and cultural significance of Asante Kotoko to the people of Kumasi and beyond.
