CAF President Patrice Motsepe has dismissed claims of bad governance within the Confederation of African Football (CAF), following the conclusion of an independent investigation into the conduct of Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba.
Almost a year ago, troubling reports surfaced alleging that Mosengo-Omba fostered an “unethical, stressful and unprofessional” work environment. Accusations also included the use of inappropriate language in internal communications. In response, CAF launched a detailed probe into possible governance breaches within its secretariat.
Executive Committee Meeting Held in Rabat
This past weekend, during a CAF Executive Committee meeting held in Rabat, Morocco, ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Motsepe publicly addressed the issue. While the meeting’s main focus was an ambitious proposed $1 billion, eight-year marketing contract, the president took the opportunity to provide clarity on the outcome of the investigation.
Motsepe Defends Mosengo-Omba
Motsepe strongly defended Mosengo-Omba, stating that the inquiry had found no evidence of misconduct.
“An independent investigation was conducted, and the findings are clear,” said Motsepe. “I have never doubted Veron’s integrity. The conclusion of the Joint Commission of Inquiry is that there was no wrongdoing. In fact, 70% of the issues in the report were related to interpersonal conflicts and mere gossip.”
Governance Reform Still on the Agenda
The CAF President emphasized the organisation’s commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that no one within CAF is above the law. He also acknowledged that while the secretary general was cleared, governance structures can still be improved.
“There is room for better governance,” he added. “Judge Damaseb from Namibia and the audit firm PwC will now look into reforms and areas where CAF can strengthen its systems.”
Motsepe’s remarks appear to put an end to a chapter of internal tension within African football’s top governing body, reaffirming his administration’s pledge to drive the organisation forward with integrity and professionalism.
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