The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially lifted a restriction that previously prevented former leaders of the organization from running in the upcoming presidential election, scheduled for March 12, 2025.
This decision, made by the Executive Committee (ExCo) in mid-September, involved removing the age limit of 70 years for various positions within CAF, including the ExCo, the presidency, and the FIFA Council. It was ratified during the 46th General Assembly, held on Tuesday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The removal of this age limit now allows former top CAF officials to return to the forefront, such as Egypt’s Hani Abu Rida (71), a member of the FIFA Council, Ivory Coast’s Jacques Anouma and South Africa’s Danny Jordaan, both 73, as well as Algeria’s Mohamed Raouraoua (77).
A highly criticized abolition
This abolition, which was anticipated following its approval by the ExCo, has been widely criticized within African football circles. Public opinion condemns it as a clear attempt by officials to cling to power. But that’s not all. Potential candidates for the next CAF presidential election, particularly former leaders whose past terms were marred by scandals under the presidencies of Issa Hayatou—who passed away on August 8—and Ahmad Ahmad, are also viewed unfavorably.
As for Patrice Motsepe, the current president aged 62, he has yet to announce his stance on a possible run for a new term. However, trends suggest he would be the frontrunner if he chose to run, enjoying strong backing from associations and FIFA.
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