Motsepe sends McKenzie strong message over government interference in matters football in Mzansi

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has cautioned Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie over what he feels is government interference in running of football in the country.

A couple of weeks ago, the World Football Governing Body, FIFA, sanctioned South Africa for playing suspended Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho in March. The midfielder had picked two yellow cards in previous matches, meaning he wasn’t eligible to feature against the Crocodiles.

Hugo Broos’ men put up a brave face and managed to collect four points in the last two World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda to top Group C and get an automatic ticket to represent Africa in the prestigious global competition with nine other teams.

 Algeria, Cape Verde – who are making their debut, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal  and Tunisia also topped their respective groups.

Why Motsepe is warning McKenzie

The South African Football Association (SAFA) President Danny Jordaan confirmed those responsible for Mokoena’s mistake have been forgiven. However, Mckenzie insisted they will not be let off the hook, a gesture, according to Motsepe, that could put South Africa in trouble with FIFA.

“All countries on the continent, there is a clear understanding of the role and partnerships with governments and the sovereignty of every nation. Football does not interfere with those sovereign matters of every country,” Motsepe told the media.

“The issue that relates to football is that governments should not interfere, so I would imagine what the minister of Sport in South Africa is communicating with FIFA will be within strict parameters. 

“If there are any issues, I am confident there will be discussions to make sure that those parameters are respected,” he concluded.