The Benin Professional Football League (Lfpb) has officially established its Sanctions and Penalties Commission, marking a significant step in strengthening the disciplinary framework of the league. This move is in line with the decisions made by the Executive Committee of the Benin Football Federation (Fbf) on September 2, 2026, and the provisions of the General Regulations. The Commission's primary role will be to ensure that disciplinary actions are handled effectively and efficiently.
The Commission comprises eight members, including five titular members who will serve for a four-year term. Appolinaire Dassi has been appointed as the President of the Commission, with Razack Bello Aboudou serving as the Vice-President and Zountchémin Valère Vignigbé as the Rapporteur. The other titular members are Essia Fidèle Houinsou and Sélidji Constance Meffon. Additionally, three substitute members have been appointed: Djibril Amadou, Enosch Chadaré, and Marlyse Houngbédji.
The Commission's mandate includes examining and ruling on disputes, complaints, and breaches of Lfpb regulations. They will also review reservations that may affect match homologation and impose sanctions as provided by the Lfpb, Fbf, Caf, and Fifa. The Commission is expected to operate with total independence from the executive and administrative bodies of the Lfpb and Fbf, ensuring impartiality, confidentiality, and respect for the rights of the defense.
The establishment of the Commission is a crucial step towards ensuring that the league is governed in a fair and transparent manner. According to the Lfpb, the Commission's decisions will be subject to appeal before the Fbf's Recourse Commission, which will make the final internal decision. It is worth noting that the decisions of the Commission are not appealable before ordinary courts.
The members of the Commission will serve on a voluntary basis and are prohibited from holding any positions within the Lfpb's Management Council, Executive Secretariat, or the Fbf's bodies. They are also required to declare any potential conflicts of interest. The Commission's establishment is seen as a significant development in the governance of Benin's professional football league.
The Lfpb's decision to establish the Commission has been welcomed by stakeholders in the football community. This move is expected to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in the league. The Commission's effectiveness will be closely monitored, and its impact on the league's governance will be assessed in the coming months.
The establishment of the Sanctions and Penalties Commission marks a new era in the governance of Benin's professional football league. With its independence, impartiality, and commitment to fairness, the Commission is expected to play a crucial role in promoting discipline and fair play in the league. The Lfpb's efforts to strengthen its governance structures are ongoing, and the establishment of the Commission is a significant step in this direction.
Key points
- The Benin Professional Football League has established a Sanctions and Penalties Commission to strengthen disciplinary governance.
