Raising standard of Tanzania Premier League obligatory

DAR ES SALAAM: IT is time for the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) and the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) to take firm action to improve the organisation and management of the Tanzania Premier League.

With the first half of the season nearing completion, the authorities must address the issues that continue to affect the competition and ensure that the second half of the campaign is managed with greater consistency and discipline.

The league continues to produce exciting matches and attracts strong support from fans across the country.

However, several problems that were visible last season have continued to surface during the current campaign.

These issues, whether related to administration, match venues, refereeing or general compliance with regulations, require attention from the bodies responsible for managing the competition.

Good football begins with proper organisation. Before focusing on performances on the pitch, there must be clear administration and consistent decision-making.

When organisation is weak, it affects clubs, players, referees and supporters. Strengthening the administrative structure of the league should therefore remain a priority.

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One important area is the understanding of rules and regulations. Board officials and club administrators must be properly trained so that they fully understand the guidelines governing the competition. These rules should not remain in documents that are rarely consulted.

They must be known, respected and applied in daily operations. When officials clearly understand the regulations, many disputes and misunderstandings will be avoided. The issue of match venues also needs careful attention.

There have been repeated questions about how a venue can be declared unfit on one day and then considered fit shortly afterwards.

Such situations create confusion and raise concerns among clubs and coaches. Complaints about poor playing surfaces and facilities have continued to appear.

Inspections must therefore be consistent, and decisions on venue approval must follow the regulations without exception. Refereeing is another area that requires close supervision.

The integrity of referees is essential for fair competition. When refereeing decisions repeatedly lead to controversy, confidence in the league is affected.

Training, monitoring and accountability must therefore be strengthened to protect the credibility of match officiating.