Madagascan authorities did not reverse its decision to dissolve the Madagascan Football Federation (MFF) despite the ultimatum issued by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
Minister of Sports, Culture and Leisures, Patrick Ramiaramanana announced the dissolution of MFF earlier March as he believed it should be responsible for the uncontrolled behavior of the spectators following an international soccer match.
He set up an interim team to replace the federation, which was given three months to organize a new election in the federation.
While FIFA approved an automatic suspension of MFF on March 14 if the government decree to dissolve the association was not cancelled within three days.
Ramiaramanana confirmed his position on Tuesday at a press conference and argued that it was not up to FIFA to dictate his actions.
"I thought deeply about it, and I listened to many people before making the decision. It is clear, I have taken the decision because it's good for Madagascan football," he said.
He added that FIFA should respect his country.
"They have no right to demand an answer from me."
Ramiaramanana repeatedly said that his priority was to solve national problem first before tackling international ones.
In that way, Madagascar would put an end to its relationships with FIFA since the island country would not be allowed to participate in any international contest and even friendly international encounters.
Madagascar would also be deprived of all rights including the right to vote at FIFA congress and even lose the annual financial support provided by FIFA.
Source: Xinhua
|
Comment
Tell A Friend
Print Format
Save Article