Chung clarifies FIFA’s position

PAPUA New Guinea Football Association president David Chung yesterday clarified that he has no intention to challenge the government’s decision to assist and help improve soccer in the country.
He said his comment was merely in response to The National’s general query on world body FIFA’s status regarding any government interference in the sport.
Chung, who is a vice-president of FIFA, one of the most powerful sporting bodies in the world, explained that FIFA would not tolerate government interference one bit and that a slightest hint of government meddling could result in the PNG team being banned from international competition.
FIFA has not been shy either from implementing its banning policy promptly.
Chung’s comment followed the government’s decision to plough money into a number of sports, including soccer, to clean them up of infighting and foster wider participation.
Minister for Sports and 2015 Pacific Games Justin Tkatchenko and his Vice-Minister Labi Amaiu came out with strong words regarding Chung’s comment, demanding a public apology from him to the government and the people of PNG.
Chung said: “If the Minister and his Vice-Minister misinterpreted my statement, then I sincerely apologise. I want to see more government involvement in taking soccer into another level.”
Chung said he welcomed Tkatencko’s prompt clarification on how the government could help the sport branch out to the country’s rural areas.
Meanwhile, Chung will launch the Besta Cup in Lae today.
The Besta Cup is a premier competition contested by the champion team of the four regions of the country.