The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced that it will hold an ordinary general assembly on July 18, 2019. The meeting, which gathers representatives from across the continent, is set to address several key items on the agenda, with one of the most important being the renewal of certain members of CAF’s Executive Committee.
Several current members, having reached the end of their terms, will be eligible for re-election. These include Jamal El Jaafri from Libya representing the Northern Zone, Augustin Senghor from Senegal representing West A, and Sita Sangare from Burkina Faso representing West B. From the Central Zone, Patrice Edouard Ngaissona of the Central African Republic and Leodegar Tenga of Tanzania will be seeking re-election, while Kalusha Bwalya from Zambia represents the Southern Zone. The renewal process offers an opportunity for continuity within CAF’s leadership while also allowing new candidates to present themselves for election.
The Executive Committee plays a crucial role in shaping the policies and strategic direction of African football. Its members are responsible for overseeing the development of the game across the continent, organizing CAF competitions, managing regulations, and ensuring that football programs at both the senior and youth levels continue to grow. The upcoming elections are therefore of significant importance, as the leaders elected will influence CAF’s priorities and decision-making for the coming years.
CAF has set May 31 as the deadline for candidates to declare their intention to run for the available positions. This allows aspiring candidates sufficient time to prepare their campaigns and present their plans for the development of African football to the member associations. It also ensures transparency in the electoral process, giving CAF members adequate time to consider the options before casting their votes at the general assembly.
The upcoming general assembly is expected to attract significant attention from the football community, not only within Africa but also internationally. Leadership decisions made by CAF have broad implications, from the organization of continental tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations and CAF Champions League to the governance of national football associations across the continent. With Africa’s football landscape continuing to evolve, the elections represent a crucial opportunity for member associations to influence the direction of the sport and ensure that CAF remains responsive to the needs of players, coaches, and fans alike.
In summary, CAF’s ordinary general assembly on July 18 will be a pivotal event for African football, with the renewal of several Executive Committee members among the key items on the agenda. Current officeholders including Jamal El Jaafri, Augustin Senghor, Sita Sangare, Patrice Edouard Ngaissona, Leodegar Tenga, and Kalusha Bwalya are eligible for re-election, while aspiring candidates have until May 31 to declare their interest. The outcome of this election will have a lasting impact on the governance and strategic direction of African football in the years ahead.
