FERWAFA to appeal FIFA directive to pay ex-Amavubi coach Rwf158m

The World Football Governing body, FIFA, has instructed Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) to pay former national team coach Johnny McKinstry US$180,000 (about Rwf158 million) for his unlawful dismissal two years ago. The development was confirmed in a media briefing by newly elected FERWAFA president Brig. Gen (rtd) Jean-Damascène Sekamana. But the former Intare FC vice president also revealed that FERWAFA has decided to appeal what it calls a ‘harsh’ decision. Irish-born McKinstry was fired as Amavubi head coach on June 18, 2016 following a dismal run of results despite having guided the Amavubi to the quarter-finals of the 4th African Nations Championship (CHAN) staged in Rwanda earlier that year. “It looks like we have lost the case but we need to appeal the decision (to a FIFA appeals organ),” Sekamana said Friday. Failure to pay the staggering amount could result in Rwanda facing a ban from all FIFA-sanctioned activities. Before he got fired, 32-year old McKinstry had just signed a one-year contract extension that would have ended in May 2017. Under McKinstry, Amavubi declined in FIFA monthly rankings, dropping from the country’s ever best position (68th) to 121st under him. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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FERWAFA to appeal FIFA directive to pay ex-Amavubi coach Rwf158m