FIFA has appointed former South African government minister Tokyo Sexwale to lead a monitoring committee to oversee issues affecting the development of football in Palestine.

FIFA has appointed former South African government minister Tokyo Sexwale to lead a monitoring committee to oversee issues affecting the development of football in Palestine.

The committee was established based on the decision by the 65th FIFA Congress in May 2015 after the Palestine FA withdrew its proposal for suspension of the Israel Football Association.

Representatives from Israel and Palestine will work with Mr Sexwale to address issues relating to a good understanding between the football organisations of Israel and Palestine.

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter said: “From his own experiences and expertise in community reconciliation and conflict resolution in South Africa, we believe Mr Sexwale is well placed to help improve access for football in the Palestinian territories.”

Tokyo Sexwale said: “This assignment regarding the tension between Palestine and Israel is no easy walk and shall have to be approached with sensitivity and circumspection. I therefore hope that an acceptable solution shall be arrived at.”