Second Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has dismissed claims that the football governing body used officiating to favour host nation Morocco during the recently concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Micheal Kofi Oduro on Metro TV, Mr. Okraku described the allegations as completely false, insisting that CAF remains neutral and committed to fair and competitive football across the continent.
According to him, it is “never true” that CAF would manipulate officiating decisions to ensure a particular country, including the host nation, wins the tournament because of its investment in African sports.
Mr. Okraku explained that referees, like all humans, are prone to mistakes and inconsistencies during matches. He noted that occasional officiating errors should not be misconstrued as deliberate attempts by CAF to favour any team or country.
He further pointed out that all CAF member associations are represented at the CAF Executive Council, making it illogical to suggest that the organisation would act in the interest of one nation at the expense of others.
Mr. Okraku stressed that the allegations of bias and manipulation are unfounded, adding that CAF operates under strict principles of fairness, transparency, and integrity.
He concluded by reaffirming CAF’s commitment to neutrality and competitive football, stating that the ultimate goal of the Confederation is to ensure the continuous growth and credibility of football across Africa.
