The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the resignation of its General Secretary, Veron Mossengo-Omba, on Sunday, following repeated calls for his removal and amid a turbulent period for African football.
Mossengo-Omba, who cited retirement as the reason for his departure, leaves the role at a time of mounting criticism over the organisation’s leadership. Controversy has intensified following the decision to strip Senegal of the Africa Cup of Nations title and allegations of corruption within CAF.
The 66-year-old, of Congolese origin and a Swiss citizen, has also faced scrutiny for remaining in the role beyond CAF’s mandatory retirement age of 63. Criticism came not only from social media but also from members of CAF’s executive committee.
In a statement, Mossengo-Omba said:
“After over 30 years of an international professional career dedicated to promoting an ideal form of football that brings people together, educates, and creates opportunities for hope, I have decided to step down from my position as Secretary General of CAF to devote myself to more personal projects.“
He added: “Now that I have been able to dispel the suspicions that some people have gone to great lengths to cast on me, I can retire with peace of mind and without constraint, leaving the CAF more prosperous than ever. I sincerely thank the CAF’s President Dr Patrice Motsepe, my teams, and all those who, directly or indirectly, have enabled CAF and organised African football to make real and remarkable progress. Let us hope that the progress made will last and be sustained.”
Mossengo-Omba has been a divisive figure at CAF, with some employees accusing him of fostering a toxic work environment. However, an investigation following staff complaints cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Although his statement cited retirement, CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe later said that Mossengo-Omba had been requested by the Democratic Republic of Congo’s president to assist with football development in the country.
Sources told Reuters that Mossengo-Omba is expected to contest the presidency of the DR Congo Football Federation in upcoming elections, a move that could position him for CAF’s top job should Motsepe step down to pursue politics in South Africa. Motsepe, however, has denied any such plans.
CAF has struggled with questions over its integrity, particularly after the controversial decision regarding Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations title, prompting the Senegalese government to call for an international investigation. The ruling by CAF’s Appeals Board has taken a heavy toll on the reputation of African football.
CAF confirmed on Sunday that Samson Adamu, the organisation’s competitions director, will serve as acting General Secretary.
