Trouble looms for GU
Fortunately, the officials escaped with no injuries and were fit to continue and complete the match.
It was evident at the game that a few security personnel was available at the game.
This is against the minimum number of 15 security agents required to be on duty during a Premier League encounter.
The incident has been strongly criticized by the football leadership overseeing the interest of match officials.
According to the referees’ manager at BFA, Phodiso Rasetshoga, the security of the match officials cannot be compromised at any point.
Rasetshoga warned clubs that compliance with regards to security at the matches must take precedence in order to allow for a safe football environment.
“Security measures must all be considered before the game can even start, including the number of security personnel for a football match to take
place. If the safety measures at a football venue are not satisfactory, a football game cannot be played. Security is not only for referees but it is for all
stakeholders. Compliance must be followed and the referees must take a strong stand to ensure that compliance is in place,” Rasetshoga shared.
“What happened last week [Gaborone United vs Sua Flamengoes] must never happen again,” he said.
According to close sources at Lekidi, the referee, his 4th official Gilbert Leteane and match assessor, Brian Botoko have noted the incident on their match reports and it is expected that the BFL will now take appropriate steps against the hosts, Gaborone United.
Sources close to the BFL have revealed that the referees’ match reports are yet to be examined and once that is done, the necessary steps will be taken.
Efforts to reach the BFL office proved futile as the CEO’s cellphone number rang answered.
Gaborone United General Manager, Thapelo Mothusi said that they are yet to receive complaints from either BFA or BFL regarding the incident.
Issues concerning the safety of referees have heightened in recent weeks following several accusations that they intentionally influence results in some games.
The Botswana Football Association (BFA) have this season suspended some match officials after their professional conduct and competency came under heavy criticism.
The infamous audio clip which went viral last month between two suspected BFA officials which carries possible match-fixing contents has seen the status of local match officials reach an all-time low point.
There is currently an uphill battle to once more gain the trust of the public as between now and then, whistle blowers remain in a vulnerable state as curtains go down on the 2022/2023 football season.