Cameroonian writer Jean Ediegnie has called on supporters of Samuel Eto'o, the current president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), to offer informed and critical support. In a column published by Actu Cameroun, Ediegnie, who describes himself as an admirer of the former footballer, stresses that "a country moves forward when its leaders are respected, but also evaluated. Blind love does not elevate".
The author, who even wrote a book in honor of Samuel Eto'o in 2022, insists that his intervention is motivated neither by hatred nor jealousy, but by a concern for consistency. He reminds those who defend Eto'o without nuance of five essential points. Firstly, Samuel Eto'o should not be considered private property. Secondly, he runs a public institution, FECAFOOT, not a fan club, which implies a right of scrutiny, criticism and questioning on the part of the public.
Thirdly, Ediegnie reminds us that Samuel Eto'o is not a god and must be held accountable for certain decisions and results. He cites in particular the lack of clarity in certain selections, hasty decisions and the sometimes approximate organization around national teams. Fourthly, he calls for Eto'o not to be presented as an opponent of the regime, stressing the complexity of relations between FECAFOOT and the Ministry of Sports.
Finally, Ediegnie insists that to love is also to tell the truth. He expresses his hope that Eto'o will profoundly transform the governance of Cameroonian soccer, while acknowledging that progress remains to be made. He thus positions himself as a demanding citizen, capable of admiring Eto'o's past while questioning his present.
Ediegnie's appeal comes amid heated debate over Samuel Eto'o's management at the helm of FECAFOOT since his election in December 2021. Between criticism of governance and sanctions from the CAF, the former star striker faces significant challenges in reviving Cameroonian soccer. His term has been marked by a desire to bring greater transparency and professionalism to the governing body of Cameroonian soccer.
