Mali handed FIFA suspension over 'government interference'

World football governing body FIFA has suspended the Mali Football Federation, following what it considers government interference.

The move comes following the decision by the Malian Minister of Sports to dissolve the executive committee of the country’s federation FEMAFOOT.

The suspension means that none of Mali’s representative teams or affiliated clubs of the FEMAFOOT are eligible to take part in international competitions.

It also means that none of the federation’s members can benefit from the development programs of FIFA or CAF.

A statement issued by FIFA said that the suspension will not be lifted until the ministerial decisions to disband the committee have been reversed.

According to the Malian authorities, the dissolution of the federation is aimed at putting to an end the persistent crisis in the country’s football.

Malian Sports Minister, Housseini Amion Guindo had earlier this week appointed a provisional committee of 19 members to reconcile the wrangling football factions in the country, to organize fresh elections for the federation officials and to also address various problems affecting Malian football.

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