KUALA LUMPUR: The FA of Malaysia (FAM) has been urged to reveal or unravel the “mystery” behind the decision of Datuk Joehari Ayub to step down as president — in order to prevent speculations and negative perceptions.
Johari’s reason for leaving FAM after only about six months, raises a question mark, especially among local football fans.
FAM’s media statement after a special executive committee meeting on Wednesday, did not provide a detailed explanation for Joehari’s resignation.
In fact, the meeting that decided to accept Joehari’s resignation was also held behind closed doors, with reporters not allowed into Wisma FAM.
Sports critic, Datuk Pekan Ramli believes that it is best for FAM to publicly announce the reason for Joehari’s resignation to put an end to any speculation that could lead to unpleasant allegations.
He said the public has the right to know the real story behind the matter because the affiliated members who have the voting power to elect Joehari can also be considered to represent football fans in the country.
“We understand and we need to respect the decision made by Datuk Joehari, but the truth is everyone wants to know. We hope that all leaders of national sports associations, whether in football or other sports, are responsible and transparent.
“State the real matter and there’s no need to raise various questions. If there is a need to be straightforward, it is better to be straightforward so that it doesn’t spark various speculations that lead to various stories.
“The main factor is that the tenure was very short, and the second is that he was given a full mandate. If he had resigned at the end of his term, there might have been nothing, and people wouldn’t have created perceptions.
“That’s why it’s best to reveal what happened… it might also bring awareness or improve the weaknesses and shortcomings that are occurring,” he said.
For the record, Joehari was appointed as the eighth FAM president since 1951 after winning unopposed at the national body’s election congress on Feb 15.
FAM deputy president, Datuk Yusoff Mahadi, has been appointed acting president until a new president is elected at the next congress, which will be held next year.
Pekan also feels that FAM should have held a press conference after the meeting, as Joehari’s resignation is seen as a major issue involving the number one position in the country’s football arena.
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