“Previously there was no effective judicial system for players. Their cases could last for five years,” Masaseng said. “Clubs were terminating contracts unilaterally and would often not give players a copy of their contract.”
“In our collective agreement this has all been addressed. The players’ rights are much better protected now.”
There are still clubs who are not paying players in full and on time, but the football association is now enforcing its new club licensing system. “The implementation of club licensing saw a slight improvement as teams are afraid to be relegated,” Masaseng said. “Four teams have been put on notice that they have to pay on time. If they fail, they risk relegation.”
More influence for players
Next to more legal protection, FUB arranged that players became part of decision making processes as they were allowed to sit on various committees, including the player status committee, the technical committee and the national team committee.
“I want to congratulate the player unions of Botswana and South Africa, as they are paving the way for other members in our division. I hope many other countries will soon follow,” said FIFPRO Board Member and FIFPRO Africa President Geremi, a former Cameroon national team player.
