The election of Bello Bourdane as president of Cameroon's volleyball federation (Fecavolley) on January 20 has sparked controversy, with former president Serge Abouem refusing to concede. Abouem claims the election was irregular, citing non-compliance with rules of the Confédération africaine de volleyball and the Fédération internationale de volleyball. He argues that only the president of Fecavolley is competent to preside over elective general assemblies.
Bello Bourdane's election was the culmination of a process initiated by two-thirds of the 2013 general assembly, in line with government directives. He participated in the elective general assembly of the Comité national olympique et sportif du Cameroun (Cnosc) on Thursday, where he was reconfirmed by the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education. Following the election, Bourdane was integrated into the CNOSC administrative council, a move seen as a recognition of his position.
Serge Abouem, however, disputes Bourdane's legitimacy, arguing that the correct procedures were not followed. In a communiqué, Abouem stated that the Fecavolley president is the only one authorized to chair elective general assemblies, even if convened by two-thirds of members. Abouem's stance suggests that the controversy may not be resolved soon.
The Cameroonian Ministry of Sports and Physical Education had validated Bourdane's election, issuing a certificate of conformity. This validation enabled Bourdane to participate in the CNOSC elective general assembly, where Hamad Kalkaba Malboum was reconfirmed as president. The presence of Bourdane at the CNOSC assembly and his integration into the administrative council lend credence to his claim as Fecavolley president.
Despite the validation of his election, Bourdane faces opposition from Abouem, who appears determined to challenge the outcome. The controversy may have implications for Cameroon's volleyball community, potentially affecting the sport's development in the country. The situation remains fluid, with no clear resolution in sight.
The Fecavolley election controversy highlights the complexities of sports governance in Cameroon. The involvement of various stakeholders, including government ministries and international federations, adds to the complexity of the situation. The outcome will likely have far-reaching consequences for Cameroon's volleyball community.
The dispute may be referred to higher authorities, including international volleyball federations, for a final resolution. Until then, the legitimacy of Bello Bourdane's presidency will continue to be contested. The Cameroonian sports community remains engaged, following developments in the Fecavolley election controversy.
Key points
- The Cameroonian volleyball federation election has sparked controversy, with two factions emerging.
- Bello Bourdane was elected as president, but his legitimacy is disputed by former president Serge Abouem.
- The controversy may have implications for Cameroon's volleyball community and may be referred to international federations for resolution.
