Following the Club Statement issued by Chairman Jock Brown on August 4th regarding the protest prior to our opening league match against Montrose, the Accies Supporters’ Association (ASA) feel we must respond.
To label last Saturday’s peaceful demonstration as “appalling behaviour” that “necessitated police intervention” is not only a gross misrepresentation of events, but further proof of a board intent on alienating its own supporters and deflecting accountability for its failures. Contrary to the club’s claims, there was no police presence at the protest. The statement is simply untrue. The stadium manager himself engaged directly with the ASA Chair and confirmed there had been no issues.
Rather than addressing the legitimate concerns of supporters, the board have once again resorted to blaming those who care most deeply about the future of this football club. Instead of engaging meaningfully, the leadership continues to dodge accountability, avoid dialogue, and manipulate the narrative.
Let us be clear: the protest was organised in direct response to the club’s ongoing mismanagement – most recently highlighted by a one-year transfer embargo – and the complete failure of the board to communicate openly with fans. It has been over a year since the last open forum was held. In that time, the ASA have organised multiple events and communications, while the club’s hierarchy remain silent and unapproachable. What does it say about our leadership when the Supporters’ Association are more present than those entrusted with running the club? You want fans to share your “dismay and anger” yet you won’t even share a room with them.
Saturday was not an isolated incident. It was the first step in a series of peaceful actions that will continue throughout the season until the board choose to sit down with supporters of the club. This should not be as an act of damage control, but as a sign of genuine willingness to rebuild trust.
We will not be silenced or intimidated by mischaracterisations or public blame. Our goal has always been, and will continue to be, to protect and fight for the club we love. The club’s leadership must now decide: will it continue down a path of division and deception, or will it finally listen, engage, and be held accountable?
The choice is yours. But know this – Accies supporters are no longer willing to stand by in silence.
