The local football federation, FERWAFA, has provisionally suspended two football figures, Japhet Imurora Hakizimana and Olivier Ndatimana, following separate disciplinary cases involving alleged match manipulation and inappropriate conduct. The decision was announced on Friday, April 24, after the federation’s Ethics Committee reviewed both incidents and concluded that further investigation was necessary before a final ruling is made. ALSO READ: Amagaju’s Imurora under FERWAFA probe over match manipulation claims In the first case, Hakizimana, a fitness coach with Amagaju FC, is accused of attempting to influence the outcome of a Rwanda Premier League match against Musanze FC played on April 17. According to the committee’s findings, audio recordings allegedly captured him speaking to Musanze goalkeeper Habarurema Gahungu, encouraging him to deliberately concede goals. Another unidentified voice is also reported to have suggested a preferred two-goal margin, a result that later matched the final score, with Amagaju winning 2-0. In a separate incident, Olivier Ndatimana, who serves as kit manager for Gorilla FC, was suspended after what FERWAFA described as unprofessional conduct during a Peace Cup match against Rayon Sports FC on April 22. During the match, Ndatimana was seen scattering a powder-like substance on the pitch, an act that raised suspicion among officials and spectators and was widely interpreted as potentially linked to superstitious practices. FERWAFA based its decision on Articles 2.1 and 2.3.3 of its disciplinary code, which address integrity, ethics, and professional conduct in football. The federation confirmed that both officials are suspended from all football-related activities until a final decision is reached by the Ethics Committee.
