In a surprising turnaround, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has publicly thrown its weight behind Black Stars coach Otto Addo, despite previously being one of his most vocal critics during their time in opposition.

The party’s latest defense comes from the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who described calls for the coach’s dismissal as “unfortunate” and warned that it would be a “tragic mistake” to sack him ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Otto Addo, who has come under scrutiny after Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, has nevertheless maintained a strong record in the World Cup qualifiers.

Under his leadership, the Black Stars have won seven out of eight matches, securing qualification for next year’s global football tournament to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This achievement makes Otto Addo the first Ghanaian coach to guide the team to back-to-back World Cup appearances, having previously led Ghana to the 2022 edition in Qatar.

Kwakye Ofosu, speaking on the floor of Parliament, stressed that the coach’s impressive qualification record should not be overlooked because of one failed campaign.

“The man who guided us to this qualification in stellar fashion is best placed to prepare the team for the competition itself,” he said.

“It will be a tragic mistake to dismiss the coach and hire a new person who will have very little time to prepare the team.”

His comments reflect a marked shift from the NDC’s earlier position.

In 2022 and 2023, several figures aligned with the then-opposition party had criticized Otto Addo’s tactics, team selection, and perceived lack of authority in managing the national squad.

Many argued that his appointment was influenced by favoritism within the Ghana Football Association (GFA) rather than merit.

The current defense, therefore, signals a reconciliatory tone between the government and the technical team as the country prepares for another World Cup campaign.

The Ghana Football Association President, Kurt Okraku, has already confirmed that Otto Addo will continue as head coach through to the 2026 World Cup.

Okraku emphasized that consistency and stability were key to building a competitive squad capable of performing on the world stage.

The World Cup draw is scheduled to take place on December 5 in Washington, D.C., where Ghana will learn its group-stage opponents.