Cosmos’ NFA appointment has an explanation

Namibia Football Association secretary-general Charles Siyauya has explained why the position taken up by Franco Cosmos this week was not advertised, citing legal matters as the reason.

Cosmos’ appointment as director of membership, governance, compliance and legal affairs at the NFA was due to an agreement settled in court, Sport Wrap can reveal.

The court found that Cosmos’ dismissal from his position was unfair, but asked the football association and Cosmos to come to a settlement agreement amicable for both parties.

Cosmos, who served as the secretary-general, was dismissed last time he served on a count of alleged insubordination.

He however won his legal dispute, which resulted in his reappointment.

“The position was not advertised, because this was a settlement done in court.

“He could not be reappointed in his old position, because there is already someone, which happens to be me. That is why we chose that position for him to serve, " secretary-general Charles Siyauya said.

Cosmos’ latest appointment was announced in a statement by the football association on Tuesday.

"The Namibia Football Association (NFA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Franco Cosmos as Director: Membership, Governance, Compliance and Legal Affairs," the statement reads.

The NFA stated that Cosmos brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served the NFA as a member of the first Normalization Committee and subsequently as General Secretary.

Cosmos officially assumed his new duties on Tuesday, 1 October 2024.

“In his capacity as director, he will be responsible for overseeing the association’s membership and legal affairs, ensuring adherence to governance principles, as well as ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.”

The NFA expressed confidence that Cosmos’s leadership and expertise will contribute significantly to the continued growth and development of Namibian football.

Former NFA president Ranga Haikali, who dragged Cosmos to court years ago, refused to comment on the matter.

Haikali said: “I am no longer in Namibian football and am not in a position to comment on structures of employment in the NFA. It is best to contact the NFA president on those matters, whether it was a vacant position that was filled or a newly created position that was advertised, et cetera.”