Presidential election: Samuel Eto'o breaks his silence in Cameroon
Fécafoot president Samuel Eto'o lifts the lid on his political involvement, a year before Cameroon's presidential election.
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Cameroonian Football Federation (Fécafoot) president Samuel Eto'o has published a heartfelt statement in response to the recent controversies surrounding his running of the federation and his political ambitions. In this clarification, the former Indomitable Lions captain and striker thanked his many supporters while setting out several key points.
A message of gratitude
Eto'o began his statement by warmly thanking his friends and supporters for their unwavering backing. He stressed the crucial part they play in defending him against the lies, defamation and bad faith that, he says, are seeking to tarnish his image. "What would I be without your affection? I am blessed to count my friends in their millions. How many legions are you, standing as a bulwark against the adversity that hounds me? ", he wrote, acknowledging the collective strength of those who stand by him through the difficult times he is going through.
A life dedicated to football
Recalling his long-standing commitment to football, Eto'o also looked back on his impressive journey from childhood to his current role as a sports administrator. Elected at the head of Fécafoot, he insisted on his dedication to improving Cameroonian football, working "twenty hours a day " to give young people the opportunities that his generation missed out on. "I have given the best of myself […] It gives my life meaning to pass on what I know and to serve those younger than me", he stated.
Clarification on his political ambitions
One of the main motives behind this statement is to dispel the rumours about his political intentions. In his writing, Samuel Eto'o reaffirms his support for President Paul Biya (42 years in power), whom he had backed in the 2018 elections, while firmly denying any ambition to stand in Cameroon's 2025 presidential election.
"Yes, in 2018, I voted for President Paul Biya. And I maintain my unwavering support for him. I own that. And no, I will not let anyone deprive me of my rights as a citizen. As far as I am concerned, let's be clear: the Fécafoot presidency is not a stepping stone to the presidency of the Republic. I say it again loud and clear: I, Samuel Eto'o Fils, am not a candidate for the presidency of Cameroon", he insists. He also stressed that this speculation is hurting his family, his friends and his sporting project: "This clarification seems necessary to me so that this unhealthy focus on my modest person stops. It makes my family suffer, frightens my friends, hampers our sporting project and poses a threat to my safety".
A call for unity and greatness
To conclude, Eto'o issued a call for building and collective dreaming for Cameroon, urging everyone to give their best wherever they are. "Let us dream big for our 'Continent', let each of us give our best in the place that is ours. Let us restore all its greatness to Cameroonian football", he wrote.
The statement comes amid growing tensions within Fécafoot, aggravated by internal disputes and disagreements with the Ministry of Sports. At first glance, Eto'o's statement aims to calm concerns and refocus attention on the federation's sporting objectives, while affirming his determination to continue his efforts to develop football in Cameroon.
A.W.