Gambia makes u-turn to lift ban on GFF committee to appease FIFA

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Friday Dec 01, 2017. 14:30

Following an order from FIFA to lift suspensions on the Gambian Football Federation, the country's president Adama Barrow has agreed to follow the order.

The National Sports Council's chairman, Bori Darboe initially announced they will not follow the order from FIFA, saying FIFA can bring on their sanctions.

However, Barrow's intervention means the GFF executive committee is reinstated and FIFA could no longer impose sanctions.

The saga resulted from the NSC's stance where they demanded the GFF executive remain suspended amid fraud and corruption investigations, but the federation has denied the accusations.

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The BBC website reports that Barrow called on the NSC to work in the interest of the players, as clubs and officials will now have to participate in local, continental and global competitions.

Furthermore, the ban could also threaten three-time African Referee of the Year, Papa Gassama's participation at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Following a meeting between Sports Minister Henry Gomez and Barrow, the NSC confirmed on Wednesday November 29, they have lifted the suspension on the GFF with immediate effect.

The NSC, however, said it would continue with investigations and a report will be submitted to the president of The Gambia, to FIFA and to the public to restore sanity, honesty and discipline in the game.