Mmegi

Rakgare changes tone on BFA

Optimistic: Rakgare PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE
Optimistic: Rakgare PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE

The Minister of Youth, Gender, Sport, and Culture, Tumiso Rakgare has said he is impressed with the improving state of the Botswana Football Association (BFA).

A few weeks ago, the minister told MmegiSport he is deeply disturbed by the association's status, citing allegations of corruption, misallocation of funds, and a lack of adherence to general corporate governance standards at Lekidi Football Centre. He even issued a warning that the association might lose government funding if corrective measures were not taken. Rakgare strongly condemned the disputes between the Botswana Football League (BFL), its shareholders, and the BFA, which led to the temporary suspension of the local elite league, heightening the already precarious situation.

There were fears that such conflicts might invite sanctions from FIFA or CAF. However, recent developments have led Rakgare to adopt a more positive outlook. "I had a meeting with some members of the BFA National Executive Committee (NEC) and conveyed my reservations regarding the way in which some of the things at the association are done. I believe they took note of my concerns because I can see that there are positive changes," he said. Recent positive developments, including sponsorship agreements and the resumption of activities by league clubs, have renewed optimism for the future of football in Botswana, according to Rakgare.

Editor's Comment
Gov't must guard against cadre deployment

As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...

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