Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), Fikile Mbalula, has criticised what he described as a “scandalous” decision involving African football leadership, claiming that Morocco was awarded a continental title through a boardroom decision rather than results on the pitch.
Mbalula made the remarks during the ANC-led People’s March held at Constitution Hill in Braamfontein on Saturday, where thousands gathered to defend South Africa’s Constitution.
Addressing the crowd, he argued that Senegal had been unfairly deprived of their title and insisted that such decisions undermine the integrity of African football. Mbalula called on Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe to intervene and ensure transparency within the organisation.
He said while his criticism was not directed personally at Motsepe, the CAF leader needed to “pull up his socks” and prevent what he described as embarrassing decisions within the continental football body.
The Confederation of African Football, led by South African businessman and football administrator Patrice Motsepe, has faced periodic criticism over governance issues and decision-making processes in African football competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations. CAF Appeal Board found Senegal broke AFCON regulations by walking off the pitch during the final, which took place on January 18, after Morocco were awarded a contentious penalty. Many Senegal players vacated the field, led by their coach Pape Thiaw, delaying the game by around 17 minutes before captain Sadio Mane convinced them to return. Brahim Diaz had his Panenka saved before tournament hosts Morocco lost 1-0 in extra-time.
Article 82 of AFCON’s regulations states that if a team refuses to play or leaves the ground before the end of regulation time without the referee’s authorisation, it will be considered the loser and eliminated from the competition.
Under Article 84 any team that violates Article 82 will be permanently eliminated and lose the match 3-0.
Mbalula’s comments reflect how football governance in Africa can quickly intersect with politics and continental solidarity. By raising the issue during a political march, the ANC leader linked sporting fairness with broader themes of justice and accountability.
The People’s March itself brought together ANC alliance partners including the South African Communist Party (SACP) and Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), alongside civic groups advocating for the protection of South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
Activist Roshan Dadoo used the platform to stress the need to defend the Constitution against domestic and international attacks, while Joy Mbewana, president of the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa, delivered her message through a struggle song highlighting the role of culture in activism.
Disability rights advocate Tshegofatso Chauke also emphasised the Constitution’s importance in safeguarding the rights and dignity of all citizens, particularly persons with disabilities.
Together, the speakers framed the march as both a defence of democratic institutions in South Africa and a call for justice and accountability across different spheres, from governance and human rights to sport.
The statement was accepted by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi.
The marches also took place in Western Caps, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
