Former Ghanaian international goalkeeper Ali Jarra has made an emotional appeal for recognition and justice, 32 years after an unfortunate incident ended his football career while serving the nation.
Jarra lamented the state’s neglect and indifference, noting that his calls for acknowledgment and justice have gone unheard.
In a facebook, he stated that the nation has turned its back on him after a life-changing injury sustained while playing for Ghana.
“It has been 32 long years since the unfortunate incident that changed my life forever while serving in the line of duty,” Jarra wrote on Facebook. “Throughout these decades, I have carried the weight of that day — the pain, the sacrifice, and the silence.”
“All I ever wanted was acknowledgment, justice, and a sign that my sacrifice mattered,” he added. “But instead, I have been met with neglect and indifference.”
Now, with a heavy heart but “unwavering hope,” the former shot-stopper is pleading with authorities to recognize the sacrifices made by athletes who serve the country at great personal cost.
“Let the state finally recognize the price paid by those who serve,” he concluded.
Jarra, who was part of Ghana’s 1991 U-17 World Cup-winning squad in Italy, also won silver at the 1993 U-20 World Cup in Australia and Japan 1993 FIFA World Cup, as well as gold at the 1993 African Cup in Mauritius.
