Why Wazito was handed Fifa restriction
Premiership side Wazito FC can count themselves lucky despite a letter from world football governing body FIFA banning them from signing any player until August next year due to one million shillings debt accrued to their former Liberian player Augustine Otu.
The move comes 24 hours after the club made four signings in the space of two days bringing in former Sofapaka captain Ellie Asieche, ex-Gor Mahia goalkeeper Levis Opiyo, former Nzoia Sugar striker Eric Otieno and Western Stima midfielder Chris Odhiambo.
FIFA through a communiqué to Football Kenya Federation declared that Wazito had not complied with its financial obligations.
Wazito FC currently third in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League standings had earlier lost an appeal and have henceforth been banned from registering any new players until the damages are paid to the said player whose contract was unlawfully terminated last year.
The club Chief Executive Dennis Gicheru was, however, coy on the matter, telling People Sport that he had no official communication to that effect and they would respond once they are in the full picture.
A statement from FIFA in part stated: “We refer to the above mentioned matter and acknowledge receipt of the attached correspondence from January 21, 2021 for the parties’ perusal.
We take due note that in its correspondence, the Creditor informs us that the Debtor (Wazito FC) has not complied with its financial obligations in accordance with the decision of FIFA.”
It went on: “In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally has been implemented by FIFA as of today (Feb 3, 2021).
Moreover, and in accordance with point 6.of the aforementioned decision, Debtor’s member association (FKF)-in copy is requested to immediately implement on the Debtor, if not done yet, a ban from registering new players at national level.”
With the ban taking effect yesterday, Wazito coach Francis Kimanzi who has released at least four players will be hoping his title-chasing outfit will not be caught up in any off-field distractions.
Meanwhile in what could spark a similar fate, Premier League rivals AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia might be inviting problems as well.
It is believed that AFC Leopards has already been directed by FIFA to pay its former Rwandese player Vincent Habamahoro Sh 1.7 million in outstanding dues, compensation for breach of contract and additional compensation.
