CAF General Secretary Veron Mossengo-Omba Resigns During Challenging Period for African Football

Mossengo-Omba announced his retirement, yet his exit occurs during a period of distrust towards the leadership of the organisation, including increasing disputes over the choice to revoke Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations championship and demands for a probe into supposed corruption within the governing body of African football.

Recent backlash has mounted against him for remaining in the role of general secretary beyond the mandatory retirement age of 63, with much of it appearing on social media alongside comments from executives on CAF's committee.

"Following more than 30 years in an international career focused on advancing a version of football that unites communities, provides education, and opens doors to optimism, I have chosen to leave my role as Secretary General of CAF to pursue more individual endeavours," Mossengo-Omba stated.

"Having addressed the doubts that certain individuals worked hard to impose on me, I can now step away calmly and unburdened, handing over a CAF that is stronger and more successful than before.

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, my colleagues, and everyone who, whether directly or otherwise, has contributed to the tangible advancements in CAF and organised African football. May these achievements endure and continue," he added.

Mossengo-Omba remains a controversial presence within CAF, with some staff claiming he fostered a harmful work environment, though a review following employee grievances found no fault on his part.

The 66-year-old, originally from the Congo but holding Swiss citizenship, previously worked at FIFA and shared a university connection with FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Despite claiming retirement, sources indicate Mossengo-Omba plans to seek the presidency of the Democratic Republic of Congo's football association in upcoming elections, according to Reuters.

A victory there could position him as a candidate for CAF's highest office if Motsepe steps down to pursue politics in South Africa, where he is mentioned as a potential replacement for President Cyril Ramaphosa, although Motsepe has refuted such suggestions.

Earlier this month, Motsepe acknowledged that CAF faces issues regarding its credibility, and following the controversy surrounding the Cup of Nations final, Senegal's authorities have urged a global inquiry into the organisation's operations.

The Appeals Board of CAF decided to remove Senegal's Cup of Nations title, a move that has significantly damaged the reputation of African football.