Ahmad Ahmad, the former president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) from 2017 to 2021, has been caught in the midst of yet another legal investigation, this time by Madagascar’s anti-corruption commission. He has been accused of “abuse of office” and is under investigation.

Ahmad’s legal troubles began in November 2020 when FIFA banned him from all football-related activities for five years due to numerous breaches of the code of ethics, including embezzlement. Though his sanction was later reduced by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the Malagasy was unable to seek re-election to his position at the head of CAF. Now, almost three years later, the 63-year-old finds himself once again embroiled in a legal battle.

On Tuesday, Ahmad was summoned by BIANCO, Madagascar’s Independent Anti-Corruption Bureau, according to BBC journalist Osasu Obayiuwana. The bureau has not yet released any further details about the investigation, and Ahmad has yet to publicly comment on the matter.

The news of Ahmad’s investigation has sent shockwaves throughout the football community, particularly in Africa, where he was once considered a rising star in the sport’s leadership. Since his initial ban in 2020, CAF has been beset by a series of crises, including allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and poor governance. Many had hoped that Ahmad’s departure would mark a turning point for the organization, but his latest legal troubles have raised further questions about CAF’s ability to clean up its act.

As the investigation continues, many are watching closely to see what the future holds for both Ahmad and CAF. Some are calling for a complete overhaul of the organization’s leadership and governance structures, while others are hoping that this latest scandal will serve as a wake-up call to those in power.

CAF distances self from Ahmad

Since news of Ahmad’s investigation broke, several African football federations have come forward to condemn the former CAF president and express their support for the anti-corruption investigation. The heads of the football federations of Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana have all spoken out against Ahmad, with the South African Football Association calling for “zero tolerance” of corruption in the sport.

Meanwhile, CAF has issued a statement distancing itself from Ahmad and emphasizing its commitment to transparency and good governance. The organization has faced mounting criticism in recent years over its handling of the Africa Cup of Nations and other major events, as well as allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement.

Despite these challenges, there are some signs of hope for the future of African football. In March, FIFA announced plans to invest $1 billion in African football over the next four years, with a focus on infrastructure, youth development, and women’s football. The initiative has been hailed as a potential game-changer for the sport in Africa, and many are hopeful that it will help to address some of the longstanding issues facing African football.

As for Ahmad, it remains to be seen what the outcome of his investigation will be. If he is found guilty of abuse of office, he could face a prison sentence and further sanctions from FIFA and CAF. In the meantime, the football world will be watching closely as the investigation unfolds, with many hoping for a swift resolution and a renewed focus on transparency and good governance in African football.

Source: BNN Network

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