First Division clubs, referees still unpaid

Calistus Kolantsho | Thursday January 12, 2017 18:00

The BFA however said they are in the process of paying referees while grants are released in batches under a new system.

Referees have not received payment for their services during the first round of the league.

BFA public relations officer, Tumo Mpatane said the BFA accounts department has deposited the money into the First Division North and South accounts. He said they expected the referees to have long been paid for the first round. He said the funds for the second round will be disbursed as soon as they are availed.

Clubs have only received part of the P50,000 grants but Mpatane said there was a new system where the money is released in batches.

TAFIC public relations officer, Warrant Kolola said they have not received the full grant. He said out of P50,000, they received P20,000 and they are still waiting for the balance. Kolola said they were promised money to brand the kit but nothing has been forthcoming.

Notwane chairperson, Arnold Somolekae said they had not received balls and nets from the BFA as promised. He said they have also received part of the grant and the BFA did not give them reasons for the change.  “We have requested to see the BFA president, Maclain Letshwiti about the issue of sponsorship and other things that we feel are not being done properly,” he said.

Meanwhile, the First Division South committee claims the BFA has usurped its powers, an accusation shot down by Mpatane.

“Nothing has changed. We have not taken powers from the league committee. We are not power hungry,” he said.

A source said under the Debswana sponsorship deal, clubs are supposed to receive nets and footballs, which has not happened. 

“We used to pay referees but the BFA has taken that away from us. We are powerless hence we see these things happening. In the past, it was our responsibility to pay referees,” the source said.

He said Debswana branding was non-existent during matches, arguing the sponsor was being shortchanged. But Mpatane said branding lies with the sponsor and added that a management committee comprising Debswana and BFA employees will be set up. He said the committee will ensure the smooth running of the league. Mpatane said the association will also hire an officer in charge of the First Division League.

“It is better late than never. All these are expected to happen this year,” Mpatane said.