PRESS RELEASE
The Executive Committee of the Ivorian Football Federation convened on Thursday, February 13, 2014, to address the ongoing situation concerning Africa Sports d’Abidjan. The following statement reflects the decisions made during the meeting:
- The Executive Committee acknowledges the efforts made by the Emergency Committee in resolving the crisis within Africa Sports d’Abidjan, resulting in the establishment of new governing bodies and regulations for the club since January 25, 2014.
- The Committee commends the Emergency Committee for its dedication and effectiveness in normalizing the management of Africa Sports d’Abidjan.
- The Committee expresses gratitude to Maître CHEIKNA SYLLA, the appointed Provisional Administrator, and his team for their commitment and professionalism, which facilitated the adoption of new statutes and the election of new club leaders.
- The Committee extends appreciation to all football club presidents and sister federations for their unwavering support throughout this process.
Despite these efforts to restore stability within Africa Sports d’Abidjan and enable its continued participation in football and other sports competitions, Mr. KONÉ CHEICK OUMAR, the former PCA of Africa Sports, persists in actions and statements that undermine the established order.
Contrary to the statutes of the FIF and FIFA, Mr. KONÉ CHEICK OUMAR has taken legal action against the FIF to challenge its decision to appoint a provisional administrator for Africa Sports. This action was dismissed by the Court of Appeal of Abidjan on January 10, 2014.
It is noted with regret that Mr. KONÉ CHEICK OUMAR, despite a previous disciplinary sanction, has engaged in behavior inconsistent with the rules and ethics of football, including:
- Legal action against the federation
- Organizing violent protests at the federation’s headquarters on January 23, 2014
- Disturbances during Africa Sports d’Abidjan matches
- Constantly contesting the legitimacy of the FIF and its decisions
In light of these actions, the Executive Committee of the FIF has decided:
- To affirm the decisions made during the General Assemblies of Africa Sports d’Abidjan held on January 18 and 25, 2014.
- To impose a five-year stadium ban on Mr. KONÉ CHEICK OUMAR.
- To impose a lifetime ban on Mr. KONÉ CHEICK OUMAR from engaging in any football-related activities.
- To notify CAF and FIFA to extend disciplinary measures against Mr. KONÉ CHEICK OUMAR at the continental and global levels.
For the Executive Committee,
Paul Mobio ABBA Executive Director
