Tanzania failed to qualify for Tunisia 2004

A major crisis has erupted in Tanzania following the suspension of the executive committee of the East African country's football association.

The decision to suspend the committee headed by chairman Muhidin Ndolanga was taken by the Tanzania FA's general assembly.

"The general assembly is satisfied that the executive members have completely neglected their duties," claimed Yahya Mhata, who chaired the assembly.

He added: "Fat has been divided into two ineffective factions and this situation demanded action."

Ndolanga and his general secretary Michael Wambura have been at loggerheads for some time now, accusing each other of incompetence.

The duo has also fought two bruising court battles this year.

Wambura said: "The general assembly has made its decision, therefore, we have no choice but to go."

Ndolanga has been at the helm since 1993 but pressure on him intensified after the national team's failure to qualify for Tunisia 2004.

The assembly has now appointed an interim committee chaired by Mhata himself to run the game.

Mhata said his interim committee would soon brief Fifa on the latest developments and seek approval to hold fresh elections after 90 days.

"We hope Fifa will understand and support us in our endeavours to rescue the game in Tanzania," he said.