African Stars Football Club has been sanctioned by Fifa for failing to pay former player Peter Ernest Adiwoh over N$186 000 for breach of contract and outstanding remuneration.  

In April this year, Fifa mandated that Stars pay Adiwoh the following amounts: N$6 000 as outstanding remuneration plus 5% interest per annum (pa) from 1 December 2023, until the effective payment date; N$10 000 as outstanding remuneration plus 5% interest pa from 1 January 2024; N$10 000 as outstanding remuneration plus 5% interest pa from 1 February 2024; N$10 000 as outstanding remuneration plus 5% interest pa effective 29 February 2024; and N$150 000 as compensation for breach of contract without just cause plus 5% interest pa from 29 February 2024.

However, Stars failed to comply with Fifa’s ruling and have now been banned from registering any new players, either nationally or internationally, until the full amount is paid. 

The ban could last up to three entire and consecutive registration periods. If the full payment, including all applicable interest, is not made by the end of these periods, the matter will be referred to the Fifa Disciplinary Committee.

Adiwoh, who signed a three-year contract with Stars from Ezma Kotoko FC in July 2023, had to return to Ghana in December after his visa and work permit expired. During his stay with Stars, he played eight matches and scored six goals.

In a separate matter, Fifa instructed Stars in March to pay N$90 000 plus 5% interest to their former coach, Prince George Koffie, whom they dismissed following the club’s defeat to Chula Chula in the Hage Geingob Cup. 

Additionally, Stars were ordered to pay N$30 000 plus 5% interest for breach of contract without just cause within 45 days, with the same penalty of a transfer ban if the debt remained unpaid. It is unclear if Stars settled Koffie’s payment.

Despite these challenges, African Stars recently announced the acquisition of Ongwediva Queens from the FNB Women’s Super League and Ongwediva United from the Oshana Regional Football League second division. These teams will be renamed African Stars Queens and Okaserandu Stars, respectively. 

The club also last weekend established a Supporters’ Club to grow the clubs brand.

When asked about Fifa’s decision, the club’s chairman Salomo Hei declined to comment. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na