CECAFA executive director Auka John Gecheo suspended from his duties
The Council for East and Central African Football Associations (CECAFA) has suspended its executive director, Auka John Gecheo, following a meeting of the organization’s executive committee.
The decision was announced in a press release on Monday, September 22, 2025, outlining the immediate suspension of Gecheo from his role.
The executive committee convened via videoconference on September 18 under the leadership of interim chair Alexandre Muyenge to discuss the matter.
In its statement, CECAFA confirmed that the committee had resolved to suspend Gecheo from his duties, though the release did not provide specific reasons for the action.
The decision followed a consultative meeting of CECAFA presidents, which included representatives from seven member associations: Burundi, Eritrea, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya, and Somalia.
The organization emphasized that the move was taken in line with its commitment to upholding the principles and values of CECAFA, highlighting a focus on transparency and accountability in its governance.
Despite the suspension, CECAFA has not disclosed further details regarding the circumstances that led to the executive director’s removal from active duty.
The organization indicated that additional information would be provided in the coming weeks, leaving stakeholders and member associations awaiting further clarification.
Gecheo’s suspension marks a significant development within CECAFA, which oversees football administration and competitions in East and Central Africa.
The executive director’s role has historically been pivotal in coordinating the organization’s activities, liaising with member associations, and implementing policies and initiatives aimed at developing football in the region.
His absence is expected to prompt a temporary reorganization of administrative duties while the matter is investigated.
The announcement has drawn attention from the football community across the region.
CECAFA, established to promote collaboration and development among its 12 member associations, has a history of navigating complex administrative and governance issues, and the suspension of a senior official underscores the organization’s ongoing efforts to maintain oversight and accountability at the highest levels.
In its statement, CECAFA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the organization and ensuring that decisions are made in accordance with established rules and procedures.
The executive committee’s intervention reflects the body’s intention to uphold governance standards and address internal matters promptly, even when specific details are not immediately disclosed to the public.
While the full context of Gecheo’s suspension remains unclear, CECAFA has assured its members and the wider football community that it will provide updates as soon as possible.
The focus now shifts to the interim management team, led by Alexandre Muyenge, to ensure the continued smooth operation of the organization’s programs and competitions during this period of transition.
Football stakeholders across East and Central Africa will be closely monitoring the situation, particularly given Gecheo’s influential role in CECAFA’s initiatives.
The outcome of this suspension may have implications for the governance and administrative stability of the council, highlighting the importance of transparency and due process in the management of regional football affairs.
— Cecafaonline (@Cecafaonline) September 22, 2025
