FIFA and CAF reject Djibouti federation decisions

FIFA and the African Football Confederation (CAF) have refused to recognize decisions made during a meeting held by the Djibouti Football Federation (FDF) on October 5, 2026, calling them controversial and legally questionable.

Letter demands return of elected officials

In a letter dated October 13, FIFA and CAF demanded that the elected officials of the FDF return to their positions immediately and gave them 48 hours to confirm they had resumed their duties, warning of potential consequences if they failed to comply.

Challenges to the validity of the meeting

The letter, addressed to Mahdi Moumin, the general secretary of the FDF, questioned the legitimacy of the October 5 meeting, especially decisions to revoke the president, executive committee, and independent bodies of the Federation.

FIFA and CAF cite legal concerns

After reviewing documents and evidence from all parties, FIFA and CAF pointed out "important statutory and procedural uncertainties" surrounding the meeting, including doubts about the qualifications of participants and the legal grounds for replacing elected officials.

Demand for immediate resumption of duties

The two organizations asked the FDF’s executive committee and administration to immediately resume their duties in line with the statutes approved by the General Assembly in December 2025, including access to premises, documents, and resources.

Deadline and consequences set

The letter gave the legitimate executive committee 48 hours to confirm they had fully resumed their functions, warning that failure to do so could lead to further actions under FIFA and CAF regulations.

No recognition of new governance bodies

FIFA and CAF stated they would not recognize any individuals or groups appointed as a result of the disputed decisions as authorized to represent the FDF in matters like governance or financial management.

Emphasis on autonomy and independence

The organizations reaffirmed the principle of autonomy for member associations and warned that obstructing elected officials or limiting their access to Federation resources could be seen as interference in internal affairs.

No evidence of financial misconduct

FIFA and CAF noted that, to their knowledge, there is no evidence of wrongdoing or misuse of funds from their development programs, such as FIFA Forward and CAF Impact, which the Djibouti Federation is subject to.