The recent surge of moral indignation directed at the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, raises critical questions about the timing and intent of such criticism, especially given the lack of similar concern during the tumultuous era of Issa Hayatou. Critics, who now portray themselves as champions of governance and accountability, remained largely silent or even complicit while Hayatou presided over a three-decade rule riddled with corruption and inefficiency that left CAF in a precarious state.
Motsepe inherited a confederation plagued by financial troubles, reputational damage, and decayed governance. Since taking office in 2021, he has initiated remarkable reforms, transforming a reported deficit of $41 million into profits for the 2023/24 fiscal year. Furthermore, financial grants to national federations have significantly increased from $150,000 to $400,000, marking a significant investment in the future of African football.
Despite this progress, recent successes, such as the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, have been clouded by contrived controversies and misinterpretations of CAF’s decisions. Critics have unfairly characterized the extension of the tournament’s hosting cycle to four years as reckless, failing to understand its alignment with global trends that promote efficiency and commercial growth in sports.
Allegations against CAF’s secretary-general have also drawn attention, and Motsepe has responded by instigating investigations and reviews, demonstrating a commitment to accountability not seen under Hayatou’s regime where corruption thrived unchallenged. Ironically, this scrutiny has emerged just as CAF appears to be stabilizing, sparking a revival of voices that had been silent throughout the confederation’s darkest times.
Motsepe has clarified that the bidding process for hosting the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was open to all CAF member associations, with Morocco being the only nation to submit a bid. As discussions regarding Morocco’s willingness to host the tournament unfold, it would be prudent for critics to encourage other nations to step forward rather than merely denouncing leadership decisions.
The financial and operational demands of hosting major tournaments require more than just criticism; they call for constructive engagement and commitment to sustainable practices. If stakeholders genuinely care about the governance and growth of African football, they should focus on mobilizing support from capable nations, improving commercial partnerships, and presenting innovative ideas to enhance revenues.
The re-election of Motsepe last year, which was unopposed, is a testament to his recognized efforts and leadership continuity within the CAF. While accountability and transparency in leadership are essential, particularly regarding external relationships, these discussions must be approached in good faith rather than with ulterior motives reflecting past complacency.
The current landscape of African football requires more than intermittent outrage or calls to revert back to a dysfunctional past. It demands consistency, a historical understanding of systemic issues, and a collaborative approach to fostering a sustainable future for the sport. The real challenge lies not in scrutiny itself, but in the double standards that may undermine the significant strides made under Motsepe’s leadership. The unity of purpose and commitment to genuine reform remain crucial for the advancement and stability of African football in the years ahead.