CAF in Crisis: Calls Mount for General Secretary to Step Down
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is facing a growing leadership crisis as pressure mounts on General Secretary Véron Mosengo-Omba to resign. Accusations of illegally holding his position have surfaced, spearheaded by a prominent member of CAF’s executive committee, Samir Sobha, president of the Mauritius Football Association.
The Retirement Rule Dispute
At the heart of the controversy lies CAF’s own employment handbook, Regulation 130, which mandates a compulsory retirement age of 63 for all staff. While a single three-year extension is permissible, Sobha argues that Mosengo-Omba’s extension expired on October 15, 2025, rendering his current position illegitimate. Mosengo-Omba reached the mandatory retirement age on October 15, 2022, having assumed the role in March 2021 at age 61.
“As per the statutes, he is occupying the seat illegally right now,” Sobha stated, emphasizing his refusal to acknowledge Mosengo-Omba’s presence at CAF meetings. He believes a legitimate general secretary is urgently needed.
Motsepe Remains Silent on Specifics
CAF President Patrice Motsepe has addressed the situation, but stopped short of providing a definitive resolution. He stated that retirement matters are governed by CAF’s rules and regulations, and that the organization will “grab the best decision… concerning employees,” prioritizing both legality, and governance. This lack of clarity has fueled further discontent among some within the CAF executive committee.
Absence and Accusations
Mosengo-Omba was absent from the recent executive committee meeting in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, due to a family emergency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Sobha indicated he would have directly confronted the issue had Mosengo-Omba been present. The timing of the absence has added to the scrutiny surrounding his position.
Broader Concerns: Morocco Afcon Final Dispute
Sobha too used the opportunity to voice concerns regarding the controversial Africa Cup of Nations final in January, alleging an “injustice” done to Morocco. He claims the Moroccan team was “robbed” due to the handling of events following Senegal’s temporary walk-off the field, arguing that all players should have received yellow cards. He has appealed to the Moroccan FA for forgiveness, stating the rules were not properly enforced.
FAQ
Q: What is the mandatory retirement age at CAF?
A: 63, as stipulated in Regulation 130 of the CAF Employment Handbook.
Q: Was an extension granted to Véron Mosengo-Omba?
A: Yes, a three-year extension was granted by CAF President Patrice Motsepe, but it expired on October 15, 2025.
Q: What is Samir Sobha’s position on the matter?
A: Sobha believes Mosengo-Omba is currently occupying his position illegally and should step down.
Q: What was the controversy surrounding the Afcon final?
A: Samir Sobha believes Morocco was unfairly treated in the final due to the handling of Senegal’s temporary walk-off, and that the rules were not properly enforced.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about the governance structures of major sporting organizations like CAF is crucial for understanding the dynamics of international sports politics.
Did you know? CAF’s Regulation 130 outlines specific guidelines for staff retirement and extensions, highlighting the importance of adherence to internal regulations.
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