The inauguration of FECAFOOT's new headquarters in Yaoundé provided an opportunity for Jean II Makoun, former midfielder for the Indomitable Lions, to pay a vibrant tribute to Iya Mohamed, an emblematic figure in Cameroonian football. Makoun praised the vision of the man he knew at Coton Sport, highlighting his role as the initiator of the construction project for this modern headquarters, launched in 2010.
"We must give a big round of applause to President Iya Mohamed, who was my president at Coton Sport," said Jean II Makoun during the ceremony. His words echoed those of several other Cameroonian football personalities present in Yaoundé, who also wanted to honor Iya Mohamed's contribution to the institutional development of football in the country.
Iya Mohamed presided over FECAFOOT from 2000 to 2013. During his tenure, Cameroon won several major titles, including the African Cup of Nations in 2000 and 2002, as well as a gold medal at the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000. Despite these successes, he was sentenced in 2015 to 15 years in prison for embezzlement of public funds.
The tribute paid to Iya Mohamed comes in a particular context, where his legacy is viewed in different ways. Some praise his contribution to the development of Cameroonian football, while others highlight the accusations of corruption that tainted the end of his term. David Eboutou, a political observer, has even pleaded for his release, pointing out that he has already served a considerable sentence.
Beyond the controversies, Jean II Makoun's recognition of Iya Mohamed highlights the importance of preserving the memory of those who have contributed to the history of Cameroonian football. The new FECAFOOT headquarters symbolizes a new stage for the governing body of Cameroonian football.
