Burkina Faso president Ibrahim Traoré has announced plans for his government to intervene directly in the country’s football administration, despite the possibility of sanctions from FIFA.
Traoré said his administration could no longer remain on the sidelines, arguing that government involvement was necessary to improve the organisation, infrastructure and development of football in the West African country.
“We have no choice; we have to step in, regardless of whether we get suspended or not,” Traoré said.
The president said the proposed intervention would be aimed at injecting new energy into football, improving infrastructure, supporting players and creating better conditions for the sport to develop.
“We are going to inject new energy so that people feel more at ease and can give their best,” he added.
The announcement could put Burkina Faso on a collision course with FIFA, whose rules require member associations to manage their affairs independently and generally prohibit undue government interference in football administration.
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A direct government takeover or interference in the running of the Burkina Faso Football Federation could therefore expose the country to disciplinary action, including suspension from international competitions.
Traoré, however, appears prepared to accept that risk as his government pushes ahead with its plans for football reform.
The proposed intervention comes as Burkina Faso seeks to strengthen the structure and long-term development of a sport that has grown in prominence in the country.
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In the meantime, the question is how far the government intends to go and whether its proposed involvement will cross the line FIFA draws between state support for football and interference in the independent administration of the national association.
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