Age Scandal Hits Under 17s, Under 20s

Basotho and the national soccer governing body, Lesotho Football Association (LEFA) are awaiting with bated breath possible reaction from Botswana to allegations of the use of overage players in the African Junior Championships earlier this year. Nine players, one in the Under 20s, Makoanyane XI, and eight from the Under 17s, Bahlabani, alleged to have been over the age limit for both categories.  

Allegations of continuous use of over aged players resurfaced in June after former LEFA Public Relations Officer and now the president of the rival Sechaba Football Association (FA), Mohau “Whitehorse” Thakaso, brought them up at a press conference held at Setsoto stadium boardroom. There has been allegations both locally and outside the country that both national teams are using overage players in junior and youth continental competitions.

Bahlabani manager and member of the  executive committee of LEFA, Thabo Pule said in an interview with the Lesotho News Agency (LENA) that the Association's president, Thabo Makakole, had asked for assistance from the Lesotho Police Service (LMPS) following the allegations and that the police had provided the names of nine players. Pule however was reluctant to disclose the names of the players involved.

Pule said however that when the alleged culprits and the management of both teams were brought before the executive committee on July 28, the allegations were strenuously denied. The meeting had then resolved to appoint a three member team to investigate further, including  verifying with the Department of Immigration whether the nine had more than one passport each showing a different age. The team comprised Association CEO, Kholoang Mokalanyane, managers of the concerned teams, Ts'iu Monne and Pule respectively

If the allegations are found to be true ‘stern disciplinary measures’ would be taken against those implicated in the matter, including the players themselves.  “Those found guilty could be suspended for bringing the Association into disrepute and for tarnishing its name both nationally and internationally,” Pule said.

The matter was to have been resolved before the August 1 South Africa and Makoanyane XI clash. 

Asked about the Bahlabani victory over Botswana in the African Junior Championships, Pule said it was up to Botswana to lodge a complaint. Pule said his Association had no knowledge of the use of over age players though he could not deny the possibility of their presence in the teams. This would be the work of individuals and not LEFA.

03 August 2004