Tensions in Namibian football have escalated following recent comments made by Barry Rukoro, who suggested that the emergence of the team Eeshoke Chula Chula is part of a plan to dominate football in Namibia on tribal lines. The allegations have sparked controversy and drawn sharp responses from various stakeholders in the sport.
Barry Rukoro, former Secretary General of NFA, alleged that the formation and popularity of Eeshoke Chula Chula is linked to a plot to displace African Stars as a leading team in the country. Rukoro stated:
"everyone who hails from the north feels like this is the hope through which to displace African Stars as a 'big' team in Namibia." Rukoro said.
Eeshoke Chula Chula's owner, Ambrosius, expressed his shock and dismay at Rukoro's remarks, labeling them as inappropriate for a football administrator of his stature.
Ambrosius highlighted that his team is representative of the entire nation, with players hailing from various regions, including the Kavango regions, Oshikoto, Khomas, and even players from Angola. He emphasized the team's commitment to competition and delivering for their fans.
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| Eeshoke Chula Chula against African Star FC |
On African Star's side, executive director, Salomo Hei, distanced his team from Rukoro's comments, asserting that his team's focus is solely on football and not on tribal or racial considerations.
Hei stated that they do not feel threatened by Eeshoke Chula Chula's presence in the league, emphasizing that they cannot be victimized by any team in the league. He added that Rukoro's statements do not represent African Stars, and any potential tribal undertones in the allegations are not associated with their team.
Eeshoke Chula Chula recently played against African Stars FC, the league champion, resulting in a 1-1 draw in front of more than 38 000 fans. In another game, Eeshoke Chula Chula secured a 1-0 victory against Orlando Pirates, collecting four points in a week.
Eeshoke Chula Chula, is newly promoted from Northern first division and currently sit in the fourth place on the Debmarine Namibian Premiership League, playing only five matches, and remain unbeaten.