Madagascar: The president of the football federation is wanted

Troubling developments have emerged for Raoul Arizaka Rabekoto, the president of the Malagasy Football Federation (FMF). Malagasy authorities have reportedly issued an arrest warrant against him over allegations of embezzlement linked to his previous professional responsibilities.

The accusations relate to his tenure as head of the National Social Security Fund (CNAPS) in Madagascar. According to judicial sources, the alleged misappropriation involves “several tens of billions of ariary,” the country’s local currency. The case has quickly gained national attention due to both the scale of the alleged sums and Rabekoto’s prominent role in Malagasy football.

Rabekoto was reportedly summoned by BIANCO, the Bureau of Investigators for the Fight Against Corruption, but did not comply with the request. Authorities believe he is currently in Switzerland. His absence has further complicated the situation and intensified scrutiny surrounding the case.

This development represents significant negative publicity for the FMF president, who assumed leadership of Malagasy football only six months ago. The unfolding legal proceedings could have serious implications not only for Rabekoto personally but also for the governance and public image of football administration in Madagascar.