BPL board moves to block Mamelodi�s return
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Friday July 15, 2016 11:15
The BFA national executive committee (NEC) recently resolved to lift Mamelodi’s suspension and decided against proceeding with a court case where Mamelodi was demanding his reinstatement.
However the BPL through their lawyer, Lore Morapedi have resolved to approach the court and oppose the reliefs sought by Mamelodi. Their argument is that Mamelodi was employed by the BPL and not the BFA.
They also argue that it is the BPL, which has instituted disciplinary proceedings against Mamelodi and the decisions that the suspended CEO seeks to set aside were made by the BPL and therefore have to be joined in the proceedings as respondents.
“In fact a perusal of your client’s papers both in the proceedings before the Industrial Court and the High Court shows that your client continually makes reference to our client (BPL) and not the Botswana Football Association.
It therefore goes without saying that our client has a direct and substantial interest in this matter and has a right to be joined as a respondent in order to oppose the reliefs that the applicant seeks,” Morapedi wrote in a letter notifying Mamelodi’s lawyer, Dutch Leburu of their intention to approach the court on the matter.
He said any opposition to his client’s request will only delay the final resolution of the matter. He said the matter already has far reaching consequences for the game of football.
“May you kindly advise us by return mail if you shall oppose our client’s request to be allowed to be joined in these proceedings.
Should you not oppose the request, we can approach the court to set timelines to file our opposing papers should we find the need to do that,” Morapedi said in the letter.
BPL board chairperson, Rapula Okaile told Mmegi Sport in a previous interview that they oppose the reinstatement of Mamelodi, who was suspended over accusations of maladministration.
The BPL is expected to carry out a forensic audit, which might ultimately prove key in Mamelodi’s case.
Mamelodi’s Lawyer, Leburu yesterday acknowledged receipt of the letter but pointed out that he is still to meet with his client and see how they proceed.