The Fiji Football Association (FFA) has confirmed that Aiyaz Mohammed Musa Umarji has withdrawn his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), effectively concluding his challenge against his disqualification under Article 46(6) of the FFA Statutes. This decision enables the FFA to continue upholding the principles of football administration, as highlighted by FFA Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Yusuf.
Yusuf reiterated that Umarji’s disqualification was rooted in his conviction for importing pseudoephedrine, a violation that conflicts with the integrity expected from football officials. Yusuf emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of integrity within the sport, stating, “Article 46(6) exists to protect the credibility of football administration, and all members and delegates are expected to uphold it.”
In light of this development, the FFA intends to thoroughly review all actions and statements related to this case, adhering to its Code of Ethics. Should any breaches be identified, they will be referred to the FFA Ethics Committee for further evaluation.
Despite the hurdles and reputational challenges stemming from this situation, the FFA remains dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and robust governance within the organization. The association is focused on enforcing statutes that protect the integrity of football administration, aiming to preserve public trust and ensure that all officials conduct themselves with the utmost ethical standards.
With Umarji’s appeal officially withdrawn, his challenge against the FFA Governance Committee’s decisions from May 27, 2025, has ceased. The provisional order from CAS that allowed him to participate in the May 2025 elections has also lapsed, and the FFA has clarified that Umarji was never officially declared elected. The organization will now proceed according to its Statutes.
The handling of this case underscores the complexities involved in leadership within sports organizations and accentuates the critical role that effective governance plays in sustaining the integrity of sporting bodies. As Fiji Football moves forward, there is optimism for strengthened governance initiatives that enhance accountability and uphold ethical standards in the sport.