Former Amavubi striker Saidi Abedi Makasi says that losing his Rwandan nationality will put his life and family in danger when he returns to his native Democratic Republic of Congo.
Former Amavubi striker Saidi Abedi Makasi says that losing his Rwandan nationality will put his life and family in danger when he returns to his native Democratic Republic of Congo.
Makasi, the former FC Brussels striker brought his fears to light following a decision by Ferwafa to direct all naturalized players, who changed their names as to go back to their original names and nationalities.
Although he did not change his name, Makasi said: "I wish this decision would not affect me since the loss of my Rwandan nationality would put my life and my family in danger.”
"I’m Saidi Abedi Makasi and I have never changed my names all along my career, and I was carrying a Rwandan Passport which expired in 2011. My driving license is also issued by Rwandan authorities.
"I don’t understand why I have to be called Congolese yet in Congo I’m called a Rwandan and they don’t allow dual citizenship,” the Espoir FC veteran forwards told Sunday Sport on Friday.
Makasi got Rwandan nationality in 2003 along with several other foreign players including Joao Elias ‘Manamana’ and goalkeepers Patrick Mbeu and Ramadhan Nkunzingoma.
They were included in the Amavubi team that played at the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations finals tournament in Tunisia.
He (Makasi) scored against his country of origin, in Amavubi’s 1-0 in the group stage game in Tunis, and back at home, his house was destroyed, property looted and his family members were hurt.
"Now I wonder what will happen if they (Congolese) will learn that I have been stripped of my Rwandan nationality. My life will definitely be at risk, and I don’t want that to happen to me because I see myself as Rwandan,” he stated.
The former KCC, SC Villa, Express FC (all Uganda) and Rayon Sports striker made 28 appearances for Amavubi between 2003 and 2009, scoring eight goals.