CAF General Secretary steps down following AFCON final controversy
Veron Mosengo-Omba stepped down in the wake of backlash over the Confederation of African Football board’s controversial decision to strip Senegal of the Africa Cup of Nations title, the continent’s premier football competition
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Secretary General, Veron Mosengo-Omba, resigned on Sunday following persistent calls for his removal, marking a turbulent period for football on the continent.
While Mosengo-Omba described his departure as a retirement, it comes amid a growing crisis of confidence in CAF’s leadership. The situation has been intensified by controversy surrounding the decision to strip Senegal of its Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, alongside increasing demands for an investigation into alleged corruption within the organization.
In recent weeks, criticism had mounted over his continued tenure beyond CAF’s mandatory retirement age of 63. This criticism was widely voiced on social media as well as by members of the organization's executive committee.
In his statement, Mosengo-Omba said that after more than three decades in international football, he had chosen to step down to focus on personal pursuits. He also claimed to have cleared doubts raised against him and expressed confidence that he leaves CAF in a stronger position.
He extended his gratitude to CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, his colleagues, and all those who contributed to the organization's progress, expressing hope that these advancements would endure.
Despite this, Mosengo-Omba has remained a controversial figure within CAF. Some staff members had accused him of fostering a toxic work environment, although an internal investigation later cleared him of misconduct. The 66-year-old, of Congolese origin and a Swiss citizen, previously worked with FIFA and is known to have longstanding ties with FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Reports suggest that Mosengo-Omba may soon contest the presidency of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s football federation. If successful, it could position him as a future contender for CAF’s top role, particularly if Motsepe were to step down amid speculation about his potential political ambitions in South Africa—claims he has denied.
Earlier this month, Motsepe acknowledged concerns about CAF’s integrity. Following the AFCON final controversy, the Senegalese government has also called for an international inquiry into the organization's governance.
Although the decision to strip Senegal of the title was made by CAF’s Appeals Board, it has significantly damaged the reputation of African football.
CAF later confirmed that its Competitions Director, Samson Adamu, will serve as acting Secretary General.
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