In early November 2022, serious accusations of sexual abuse of minors within the Congolese Federation of Football Association (FECOFA) were reported by many media.
In particular, several coaches from different leagues and regions of DR Congo have been accused of abusing minors.
As a result, the Investigation Chamber of the Independent Ethics Commission opened a preliminary investigation against several coaches in DR Congo, including Mr. Jonathan Bukabakwa, former youth coach of clubs in the Lipopo and Malebo regions, members of the Entente urbaine de soccer de Kinshasa (EUFKIN-Lipopo and EUFKIN-Malebo).
On February 16, 2023, based on the information and documentation obtained during the preliminary phase of the investigation, the Investigation Division determined that a prima facie case existed under Article 62, paragraph 1 of the FIFA Code of Ethics. It therefore decided to open a formal investigation against Mr. Bukabakwa for possible violations of Article 24 of the said Code of Ethics.
The Investigation Division also requested the Judicial Division of the Independent Ethics Committee to impose provisional sanctions on Mr. Bukabakwa in accordance with Article 86, paragraph 1 of the Code of Ethics.
On March 20, 2023, following the request of the Investigation Chamber, the President of the Judicial Chamber decided to impose a provisional ban on Mr. Bukabakwa from all football-related activities (at national and international level) for a period of five months, based on Article 86 of the Code of Ethics.
The decision was notified to Mr. Bukabakwa today Wednesday March 22, 2023, the date on which the suspension came into effect.
