By Lehlohonolo Lehana
Chippa United says the ban of the club only refers to the payment of certain amounts to Augustine Kwem’s signing-on fee, as a result the club is free to continue its normal activities.
This follows the news that Fifa has sanctioned the club for failing to pay the sign-on fee for Nigerian attacker. Kwem, 24, took the Chilli Boys to the world-governing body over failure to settle his R200, 000 signing-on fee.
“We reassure all concerned that payment have been made in terms of an agreement on payment and the club was busy with tax calculations, as the amount is related to an employment agreement,” read the club’s statement.
“We condemn the agent of Kwem, who dearly had a hand in leaking the information, whereas the club had done all in its power to resolve the matters amicable.
“In summary, we reassure our supporters and fans that the club will participate in normal transfer activity and we are 100% focused on collecting maximum points in our next game against Swallows FC to stay clear of relegation zone.”
In a letter addressed to the club by Fifa’s disciplinary coordinator, Pablo Primo, said it was confirmed that the decision has been taken following the club’s failure to pay the amount as ordered.
“We take due note that in its correspondence, the creditor informs us that the respondent, the club, Chippa United FC, has not complied with its financial obligations in accordance with the decision of Fifa,” the letter read.
“In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally has been implemented by Fifa as of today [May 4].
“Moreover, and in accordance with the aforementioned decision, the respondent’s member association is requested to immediately implement on the respondent the club, Chippa United FC, a ban from registering new players at the national level.”
According to Kwem’s agent, Johnny Ogbah, they had to report the club to Fifa after they failed to pay the money as they promised.
Kwem spent two years at Chippa, and is now on the books of TS Galaxy.