Dr. Jean Nyamsi slams CAF’s unanimous support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino

Cameroonian football administrator Dr Jean Crépin Soter Nyamsi has expressed reservations about the unanimous support of the 54 African federations for the outgoing FIFA President, Gianni Infantino.

Following the statements made on April 29 in Vancouver by the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr Patrice Motsepe, asserting the unanimous support of the 54 African federations for the outgoing FIFA President in the 2027 election, Dr Nyamsi expressed his deep concern.

Jean Nyamsi declares interest in FIFA presidency

In a press statement released on Monday, May 4 in Paris, Dr. Nyamsi articulated his reservations about the declaration by Dr. Motsepe.

“African football is going through a pivotal moment in its history. While we acknowledge Dr Patrice Motsepe’s commitment to the development of our competitions, we must recall that each national federation is a sovereign
institution, free to make its own choices and strategic orientations.

“The vote for the FIFA presidency is a democratic, individual, and secret act, which belongs exclusively to the presidents of the 211 member associations.

“Prematurely committing the entire continent without prior and thorough consultation conceals the diversity of the sporting ambitions of our nations.

“This weakens Africa’s position on the world stage by portraying it as a monolithic bloc without internal debate.

“Moreover , this position is being taken at a time when an African candidacy is being put forward for the FIFA presidency.

“Africa today has the historic opportunity to have one of its own at the head of world football, to promote a more equitable, inclusive, and transparent governance.

“Rather than aligning by default, our continent must choose boldness and excellence. We therefore solemnly call upon the presidents of the 54 African federations to fully exercise their leadership.

“Africa must no longer be a mere supporting force, but a major driver of
change.

“True to our vision of a universal football where each nation counts equally, we will continue to engage with all federations to collectively build the future of world football.” The statement read.

Dr Nyamsi declared his intention to contest the FIFA Presidency in 2027 when the football governing body goes to congress in Morocco.

He previously had an unsuccessful campaign running for Cameroon FA President in 2021.

Morocco will host the 77th FIFA Congress on March 18, 2027, in Rabat, which will serve as an elective congress for the FIFA presidency.

Current President Gianni Infantino who has ran FIFA since 2016, has confirmed his intention to run for re-election for the 2027–2031 mandate, marking the second consecutive time an elective congress is held in Africa.

The congress will also finalize plans for the expanded World Cup format in Mexico, Canada and USA and determine funding distribution for smaller football nations.

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