Kalla's instruction contravened President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's initial support for Imam to reform the PSSI through the suspension, so that the organization could usher in a new reform-minded management team.

The Vice President said he had ordered the lifting of the ministry's suspension to head off a threat from world governing body FIFA, regarding sanctions it would impose on Indonesia should the country fail to resolve the mess by May 29.

FIFA said the minister's decree was an indication of government interference in the PSSI, a condition strictly prohibited by the world'€™s soccer governing body.

"It has been agreed that the PSSI should be active again in order for the competition to proceed," said Kalla after a meeting attended by Imam, PSSI deputy chairman Hinca Panjaitan, Indonesian Olympics Committee chairwoman Rita Subowo and former PSSI chairman Agum Gumelar.

"Problems [with FIFA] will be automatically resolved," he said.

Minister Imam imposed the suspension on April 17 after the PSSI refused to disqualify two '€œlegally flawed'€ clubs from the Indonesian Super League (ISL), as recommended by the ministry sanctioned Indonesian Professional Sports Body (BOPI).

Imam could not be reached for comment. He immediately left Kalla's office before the Vice President was due to issue a joint press statement.

According to Kalla, Imam had to report to the President to process the withdrawal of the decree. (ren)(+++)

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