FIFA has opened formal ethics proceedings against three senior officials of the Congolese Football Association (FECOFOOT) over alleged financial misconduct involving FIFA funds.
The decision was announced by the investigatory chamber of FIFA’s independent Ethics Committee after reviewing documents and evidence linked to the case.
Those under investigation are FECOFOOT president Jean-Guy Mayolas, General Secretary Wantete Badji and Finance Director Raoul Kanda.
According to FIFA, the proceedings follow findings of suspected irregularities and inconsistencies in the management and use of funds allocated to the federation.
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The global body stated that the alleged conduct may breach provisions of its Code of Ethics, including misuse of funds, falsification of documents, conflicts of interest and improper exchange of benefits.
In a statement, FIFA said: “This material indicates potential financial irregularities and inconsistencies relating to the use of FIFA-allocated funds.
“Based on this information, the investigatory chamber has determined that there is a prima facie basis to open proceedings for potential breaches of the FIFA Code of Ethics.
“On this basis, the chairperson of the investigatory chamber has decided to open formal proceedings against the following FECOFOOT officials: Jean Guy Mayolas, President of FECOFOOT and a member of the FIFA Media and Communications Committee; Wantete Badji, General Secretary of FECOFOOT; and Raoul Kanda, Finance Director of FECOFOOT.”
FIFA added that the conduct under review may violate Article 29 on misappropriation and misuse of funds, Article 25 on forgery and falsification, Article 20 on conflicts of interest, and Article 21 on offering and accepting benefits.
It noted that the list of potential violations may be expanded as the investigation progresses.
The development follows a ruling by a court in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, where Mayolas was reportedly convicted in absentia over the embezzlement of about $1.1 million in FIFA funds.
The funds were said to include allocations for women’s football development and infrastructure projects.
Mayolas was handed a life sentence, while Badji and Kanda reportedly received five-year prison terms.
FIFA reiterated its commitment to accountability and transparency, stressing that proper use of development funds remains a priority.
The body added that it would not make further comments while the proceedings are ongoing.
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