The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is set to make a landmark decision on refereeing oversight and disciplinary sanctions, with its executive committee meeting this Friday in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The session comes in the wake of controversies surrounding the recent Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal, which sparked disputes over disciplinary rulings and generated significant challenges for CAF’s governance.
According to reports, the executive committee’s agenda includes key items on regulations, refereeing standards, and the code of conduct. Of particular note is the unprecedented level of executive involvement in refereeing matters.
Historically, referees committees—whether at continental, international, or national levels—operate independently, provided they follow established laws and standards. CAF’s move signals a new approach, giving the executive committee the authority to monitor and intervene in officiating decisions, VAR operations, and match commissioner oversight where necessary.
The reforms aim to promote respect, integrity, and global competitiveness across CAF competitions. Meetings organized under this directive will focus on improving the professionalism and accountability of referees and VAR officials, as well as safeguarding the reputation of African football worldwide.
The executive committee is determined to prevent controversies like those seen in the AFCON final from undermining the sport’s credibility on the continent.
In addition, CAF plans to approve a resolution recommending that the 48th ordinary general assembly empower the executive committee to impose stronger sanctions for unethical behaviour.
National federations, clubs, officials, and players who violate CAF statutes, regulations, or the code of conduct could now face decisive disciplinary measures.
The sanctions are designed to deter conduct that could damage the reputation, integrity, or competitiveness of African football and its competitions on a global scale.
