SAFA referees suspended for match-fixing approach FIFA

The South African Football Association (SAFA) match officials recently suspended for match-fixing have taken the matter to FIFA.

Tshianeo Ratshilumela, Mulaudzi Rollet, Mudau Aifheli, Ramulumbi Khuliso, Sinthumule Stephen, Makhomisani Livhuwani and Ngwenya Tsundukani were in October suspended by SAFA Vhembe for match-fixing, unethical conduct and soliciting bribery before and during games.

“It is for this reason that SAFA Vhembe has decided to tackle match-fixing, unethical conduct and any corrupt activity head-on by imposing a zero-tolerance policy,” said SAFA Vhembe at the time.

They officiate in the LFA Leagues as well as the ABC Motsepe League in the province.

Those suspended also include clubs; Tshikhwani Stone Breakers, Phylimak Football Club and Muchipisi Happy Fighters, who play within the SAFA Vhembe Leagues. Club official Raymond Chauke from Municipisi Happy Fighters was also implicated.

The implicated parties have since approached FIFA for intervention.

In a letter dated 13 December 2022, FIFA have ordered SAFA to provide the following details:

I. Proof that the above-mentioned officials have been cited properly;

II. Proof that the above-mentioned officials had the opportunity to state their case;

III. Proof that the decision(s) has/have been duly notified to the abovementioned officials; and,

IV. Copy of the original decision.

The letter was addressed to the organisations CEO Tebogo Motlanthe.

FIFA SEEK ANSWERS FROM SAFA

SAFA are required to provide the requested documents by 20 December 2022.

“Finally, we would like to draw your attention to the fact that you shall act in good faith and collaborate to establish the facts as well as comply with requests for information from the FIFA judicial bodies (cf. art. 20 (1) and (2) FDC),” said FIFA in a letter that also cited the article written by FARPost on 25 October 2022.

“Failure to cooperate with the FIFA judicial bodies or its secretariat may lead to the imposition of disciplinary measures (cf. art. 20 (4) FDC).”

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