The Confederation of African Football is conducting an internal inquiry into serious misconduct allegations involving its general secretary, Véron Mosengo-Omba, as reported by the Guardian.
An urgent meeting convened by Caf president Patrice Motsepe with the executive committee on Tuesday, characterized by sources as heated, reportedly addressed allegations outlined in a report from the head of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC). This report, which surfaced months ago, had its details disclosed for the first time at the Tuesday meeting.
The Guardian has reviewed the report, which accuses Mosengo-Omba – who took on his role in March 2021 – of “hindering” GRC members from executing their roles. It claims a “stressful, unethical, and unprofessional atmosphere” exists within Caf, alongside “multiple instances of inappropriate language” in inter-departmental communication.
Caf’s investigation was initiated due to pressure from executive committee members, while Mosengo-Omba asserted in a statement on X that he would be vindicated. “My attempts to reform and regularize this organization, which has at times been disrespected, are being undermined by a sudden report filled with complaints lacking documented evidence. The forthcoming independent inquiry will reveal the inaccuracies and origins of this report,” he stated.
My efforts to turn around and regularize this institution, which has been disrespected at times, are being sabotaged by an out-of-the-blue report containing grievances without documented proof.
The planned independent investigation will expose the falsity & origin of this report.— Véron Mosengo-Omba (@VeronMosengo) July 31, 2024
In a July interview with BBC, Mosengo-Omba claimed that Caf would be free of debt by the next year, crediting improved governance since Motsepe’s appointment in 2021, during which time the organization faced a £30m deficit. “Motsepe and his executive taking charge was, for me, a significant benefit for African football,” said the lawyer, who previously served as Fifa’s chief member associations officer.
“In 2021, Caf was seen as a problematic organization – it lacked the trust of its stakeholders. When Motsepe came on board, he instituted principles of good governance and integrity at all organizational levels. This has restored confidence among our partners.”
Caf has been approached for a comment.
