Cameroon football federation has criticised the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to suspend its president, Samuel Eto’o, following incidents at the Africa Cup of Nations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) said it had taken note of the ruling by CAF’s disciplinary committee, which handed Eto’o a four-match suspension and a $20,000 fine, but insisted the decision “lacks any explicit justification”.
“FECAFOOT further notes that the expedited procedure leading to this decision raises serious concerns regarding the fundamental requirements of a fair trial,” the federation said.
FECAFOOT President Samuel Eto’o. Photo Credit: Getty Images
CAF announced on Monday that it had opened investigations into match incidents during the AFCON quarter-finals between Cameroon and Morocco, and Algeria and Nigeria.
While CAF did not refer to any specific incidents from the Morocco v Cameroon match in its statement, the only widely reported flashpoint involving a senior official was the behaviour of Eto’o.
The former Cameroon striker was seen gesturing angrily during the game towards his Moroccan counterpart, Fouzi Lekjaa, with CAF president Patrice Motsepe seated nearby.
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The quarter-final was played in a tense atmosphere, with several heated moments on the pitch and confrontations involving players from both sides.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
In response to the sanction, FECAFOOT reiterated its backing for Eto’o.
“FECAFOOT reaffirms its unwavering support for its president and its commitment to upholding the principles governing credible disciplinary justice,” the statement added.
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CAF has not publicly addressed FECAFOOT’s concerns but said investigations into incidents at the tournament remain ongoing.
