SFF president Ali Abdi Mohamed (sporting a blue shirt)
The Somalia Football Federation (SFF) has firmly rejected any allegations of bias among its referees.
The federation emphasized its dedication to elevating the country’s football to meet global standards.
In a statement, the SFF highlighted the role of football as more than just a pastime; it’s a source of jobs for young people, a deterrent from negative influences, and a glue holding the nation together despite its ongoing security troubles.
“Some naysayers have been peddling fibs and baseless stories about our operations and events. We stand strong in our mission to transform Somali football, and these rumors are nothing but smoke and mirrors,” the statement declared.
“We treat every region with the utmost fairness.”
The announcement followed whispers of friction with some top-tier referees, who reportedly exited their positions due to disputes with the federation.
This turmoil coincides with accusations of favoritism, nepotism, and dishonest practices, all vehemently denied by the SFF.
The federation pointed fingers back at the departing referees, citing their failure to ace the necessary fitness and stamina tests.
“One internationally recognized referee couldn’t nail the fitness test mandated by the FIFA MA Course. After stumbling for the third time, he was removed from Somali international referees,” explained the SFF’s statement.
“He now claims he’s left his profession, but we must underscore that this aligns with FIFA’s criteria. His removal was purely due to not meeting the fitness standards.”
The list of those who have chosen to leave includes veteran referee Mohamed Nur Muhudin.
In addressing the shortage of qualified coaches, the federation proudly shared that it has equipped 52 coaches with Confederation of African Football (Caf C and Caf B) diploma licenses.
This initiative not only aims to elevate the level of football in Somalia but also to create employment opportunities.
The SFF also announced its intention to upgrade the fields at Jowhar, Galkaio, and WAMO stadiums and expand its services by opening new offices in the regions of Jubaland, South-West, Hirshabelle, Galmudug, and Northeastern State.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
