In the curious case of Cameroon, the beautiful game is embroiled in an ugly power struggle. Samuel Eto’o, the legendary footballer and current president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), has been relegated to the sidelines when it comes to appointing the next coach of the Indomitable Lions. Instead, the final say lies with President Paul Biya, a man whose expertise lies more in the political arena than on the football pitch.
This decision has sparked outrage and accusations of meddling from the highest office. Eto’o, a titan on the field, now finds himself a pawn in a game far bigger than himself. While Eto’o’s leadership at FECAFOOT has been mired in controversy, with accusations of interference and a revolt within the football community, the current situation feels like a power grab, stripping away the autonomy of the federation.
Across the border in Kenya, whispers of a similar nature have been swirling around the appointment of Harambee Stars coaches. Though not as blatant as Cameroon’s presidential decree, rumors persist that former Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Nick Mwendwa may have wielded undue influence, calling the shots for coach selection and even favoring players from his club, Kariobangi Sharks.
While the Kenyan situation lacks the iron fist of Cameroon’s presidential intervention, it highlights the ever-present danger of football becoming entangled with political agendas and personal interests. When those in power, be it presidents or federation officials, use their positions to influence team selection or coaching decisions, meritocracy flies out the window, and the beautiful game loses its shine.
The future of football in both Cameroon and Kenya hinges on transparency, accountability, and a unwavering commitment to merit. Placing the fate of the national team in the hands of those with political agendas or personal vendettas is a recipe for disaster.
