Three Referees Permanently Banned Over Match-Fixing Allegations

Three Referees Permanently Banned Over Match-Fixing Allegations

By Sampson Adedeji

The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) has issued lifetime bans to referees Amida Hemedi, Ally Uwimana, and Djihadi Mbarute for their alleged involvement in match-fixing activities within the domestic football league, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The trio reportedly conspired to manipulate matches in the Rwanda Premier League on multiple occasions.

Amida Hemedi is believed to be the ringleader behind the scandal and has been identified as the central figure coordinating these illicit activities, which are in direct violation of football regulations.

Ally Uwimana was penalized for allegedly encouraging fellow referees to place bets on matches they were officiating, while Djihadi Mbarute is accused of acting as an intermediary, receiving payments from individuals looking to influence match outcomes.

As part of the sanctions, Hemedi has been stripped of her FERWAFA refereeing credentials.

A letter signed by FERWAFA Secretary-General Adolphe Kalisa stated: "Based on the decision of the refereeing commission meeting held on December 16, 2024, which found you guilty of misconduct incompatible with the values of refereeing — specifically your role in connecting referees with individuals involved in match-fixing — I am writing to inform you that you are hereby dismissed as a FERWAFA referee effective immediately."

The decision underscores FERWAFA’s renewed efforts to combat corruption and restore integrity within Rwandan football.