BFA CEO unaware of exit talk

Chakalisa Dube | Saturday December 4, 2021 06:00

Botswana Football Association (BFA) chief executive officer, Taylor says she is unaware of reports linking her with exit from the association PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE

She was appointed the BFA CEO in April this year, replacing Mfolo Mfolo who left under unceremonious circumstances after enduring a controversy-ridden reign. “I have nothing much to say. That is news to me. I am not aware of anyone who wants me out and what their reasons could be,” a seemingly less worried Taylor told Mmegi Sport.

The position of CEO has proven to be the most unstable job at the association over the years. There is mounting speculation that Taylor could soon leave the association, just less than a year into her three-year contract. It is alleged that some influential figures at Lekidi Football Centre do not favour her style of leadership.

Those in support of Taylor say that she is professional and liberal in her approach. Taylor, however, admitted that she is worried by the speculation linking her with an exit from Lekidi when pressed further. “It is worrying that there could be such speculation, but I have not seen anything to suggest that (she could leave or she is unwanted).” Her arrival at Lekidi coincided with the association’s restructuring exercise, something which is believed to have earned her enemies. There have been widespread reports that some key figures at Lekidi are divided in terms of how the restructuring exercise at Lekidi should be carried out. Once completed, the restructuring exercise is expected to result in a simplified, yet professional and functional structure.

The exercise is expected to end soon. The restructuring exercise started as far back as 2015 and revisited several times in 2017, 2018 and the earlier part of 2021. So far four employees have left the association and an additional 10 employees are expected to leave the association once the restructuring exercise has been completed.

Several people among them Mfolo warned Taylor to be cautious when executing her duties at the association. Mfolo issued the warning days after Taylor made history by becoming the first female CEO of the association. The former BFA CEO said that if Taylor does not act with caution her reign at Lekidi will be difficult and she might ultimately leave before her contract comes to an end.