The race for the presidency of the Burkinabe Football Federation (FBF) has intensified with Oumar Sawadogo officially declaring his candidacy. On Friday, July 12, 2024, Sawadogo, representing the Sports Union of the Armed Forces (USFAS), formally submitted his candidacy papers, marking a significant step in the ongoing electoral process.
Oumar Sawadogo’s candidacy, initially announced by USFAS on June 28, 2024, became official as he presented his documentation to the media.
The announcement was a well-supported affair, with prominent figures from the Burkinabe football community in attendance.
Among them were Lazare Bansé, the outgoing FBF president; Ousmane Boly, another declared candidate; Rahim Ouédraogo, founder of Rahimo FC; and Sita Sangaré, a former FBF president.
Although the formal campaign has not yet commenced, Sawadogo outlined his primary objective: uniting the football community in Burkina Faso.
He emphasized the importance of cohesion among football stakeholders as a prerequisite for the sport’s development.
“The first mission is to bring together football stakeholders. Anyone can develop football, but if we want to develop football and people are not united, how can we achieve this?” Sawadogo stated during his announcement.
The election for the new president of the FBF is slated for August 31, 2024. As the date approaches, Sawadogo’s emphasis on unity sets the tone for his campaign, distinguishing him in a field of candidates focused on advancing Burkinabe football.
His call for solidarity highlights a strategic vision aimed at leveraging collective effort to foster growth and success in the sport.
With the presence of former and current football leaders at his candidacy announcement, Sawadogo’s campaign is backed by a blend of experience and innovation.
The support from figures like Lazare Bansé and Sita Sangaré underscores a bridge between the federation’s past and its future aspirations.
As the campaign gears up, Sawadogo is expected to delve deeper into his strategic objectives and policies.
His initial focus on unity suggests a holistic approach to leadership, aiming to resolve internal divisions and harness the potential of all stakeholders.
The specifics of his campaign will likely address areas such as youth development, infrastructure improvement, and international competitiveness.
Oumar Sawadogo’s official entry into the race for the presidency of the Burkinabe Football Federation marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing electoral process.
His commitment to uniting the football community reflects a leadership style rooted in collaboration and collective progress.
As the August 31 election date nears, the football community in Burkina Faso will closely watch how Sawadogo and other candidates outline their visions for the future of the sport.
