Blow for Simba as TFF endorses Lawi to play for Coastal Union

Dar es Salaam. Simba’s hopes of using central defender Lameck Lawi in the Tanzania Mainland Premier League and other competitions have been dealt a significant blow.

This comes after reports emerged that the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF)’s Legal, Ethics, and Players' Status Committee has endorsed Lawi's move to Coastal Union.

According to sources obtained by The Citizen, Coastal Union are set to receive a licence allowing Lawi to compete in the Mainland League, adhering to the relevant regulations.

The reports suggest that Coastal Union have won in the legal dispute concerning Lawi, which Simba claimed to have registered him legally.

The outcome of the case has apparently favoured Coastal Union, casting doubt on Simba's claim to the player.

Coastal Union chairman Steven Mguto confirmed that Lawi will be participating in their forthcoming matches. The team is currently awaiting the official playing licence from the TFF.

“Lawi is back in the country and is actively training with Coastal Union. We have no doubts about him playing for us this season, as he is a legitimate player.

We expect to receive his licence from the TFF at any moment,” said Mguto through mobile phone.

On the other hand, Simba’s Media Officer Ahmed Ally revealed that they are still awaiting the committee's decision regarding the situation. 

“From our perspective, we have not received any confirmation that Lawi has been endorsed by Simba.   I followed up with the committee but did not get any response.

 Therefore, the news of him being approved to play for Coastal Union is new to me, and I will follow up on it,” said Ally. For his the committee chairman Saidi Soud said that he is not aware on the matter as he did not attend the last meeting.

“I did no involved in the last meeting on the matter. I request you to communicate with other committee members to give the clarifications,” said Soud. Lawi, who had previously undergone trials with K.A.A. Gent in Belgium, was not successfully registered with the team, which may have influenced the current situation.

 Simba had previously announced that they signed Lawi to a three-year contract. However, Coastal Union quickly contested this claim, asserting that Lawi was not available for transfer.

 According to Simba, all procedures for the player's recruitment were duly followed. This included paying the required signing fees and compensating the previous club.

However, Coastal Union has disputed Simba's assertions, indicating that no formal release letter was issued to Simba for Lawi’s transfer.

The ongoing dispute underscores the complexities involved in player transfers and the legalities that govern such processes.

As the situation develops, both clubs and the player await further resolution from the TFF.

Coastal Union are optimistic about integrating Lawi into their squad, while Simba remain hopeful for a favorable outcome regarding their claim.

The final resolution of this case will be crucial for both the player’s career and the competitive dynamics of the Tanzanian Premier League.