'Fights' force Radipotsane out of BFA race
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Friday June 12, 2020 11:06
The Pilikwe United chairperson had initially planned to contest as one of the additional members, but has now lost interest owing to ‘divisions’.
“I had thought that this year, there will be a change but it appears there isn’t. You can see that almost 30 people will be standing for elections and you wonder what they are going to do there,” Radipotsane said. “There is no change. If there is such a high number of candidates for positions, then it means there is too much division.” Radipotsane said what is needed was strong clubs for local football to grow and not just a strong NEC. He said local clubs need strong people with integrity at leadership level.
He said his initial interest was to go to BFA and be the voice for strong structures at club level, which would help clubs turn into companies. Radipotsane said he would now focus on making his club even stronger. Pilikwe United, together with the likes of Masitaoka and Holy Ghost, are amongst several clubs that have made headway towards turning professional despite playing in the lower divisions.
The trio are run professionally, even better than some Premiership sides.
“What we need is a strong board at BPL and autonomy. Our teams must be competitive and have the integrity where they can be trusted by banks or potential financial partners,” he said.
With the deadline for submission of candidates set for June 19, a list of three contesting teams is already circulating with at least three candidates set to battle for the presidency. Incumbent president, Maclean Letshwiti has already expressed interest in seeking re-election.
He is set to compete with former president, Tebogo Sebego as well as Ookeditse Malesu for the highest position in the NEC. However, Radipotsane said the scramble for positions is unnecessary.
He said many of those seeking positions at the association are after fame.
“When people fear responsibility at their respective clubs, they run to the BFA. What are they going to do there? At BFA there is nothing really much to do there, except for policy-making and rules as well as national teams. You cannot decide what Pilikwe United can do at BFA level. You have to be at Pilikwe United to make things happen for your club not at the BFA,” Radipotsane added.
He said many are probably after fame, as BFA president does not get a salary from FIFA. Like in 2016, Radipotsane revealed he would not be rallying behind anyone who is contesting for positions. In the past, Radipotsane was seen as one of the kingmakers because of his strong connections and influence in the regions. However, he said this time around, just like in 2016, he will not be backing any camp.