CAF President Patrice Motsepe addresses Samuel Eto'o allegations, emphasizes importance of due process

Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), recently spoke to France 24 television in Rabat, Morocco, providing an update on the ongoing investigation against Samuel Eto'o, the President of the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot).

The investigation, initiated in August following allegations of match-fixing and other misconduct, was launched at the behest of several stakeholders in Cameroonian football.

Samuel Eto'o expressed dissatisfaction at not being heard and vowed to sue CAF for defamation in reaction to the accusations in March.

Addressing this issue, Motsepe emphasized the need for perspective. He acknowledged Eto'o's illustrious career as a footballer, expressing pride in his achievements on the field. However, Motsepe also underscored the importance of applying the law equally to everyone, regardless of their status or accomplishments.

“You have to know how to put things into perspective. On the one hand, Samuel Eto'o will always be a football player of whom we were very proud, who was among the most talented. And I will continue to be proud of what he managed to do on the pitch; That's a first point," Motsepe said.

“But we must also consider these allegations not only in relation to Samuel Eto'o, but in relation to others, and the critical aspect from the FCA side, is that we must investigate every complaint, every allegation and every accusation. We must do it ethically, in accordance with global principles, namely the presumption of innocence… It's not just about football, it's about what's happening across Africa and the world .

"No one, me first and foremost as President of CAF, No one is above the law. The decision must be dictated not only by what happens during the hearing, but also by the rules of CAF and FIFA," he concluded.