Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – The spokesperson for a group of dissenting clubs, David Yaméogo, announced the suspension of their boycott against the Burkinabè Football Federation. This development, which potentially signals a resolution to the crisis that has gripped Burkina Faso’s football scene for nearly two months, was revealed during a press conference in Ouagadougou.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Yaméogo, in his declaration, stated, “We have decided to suspend our slogan of boycotting the activities of the Burkinabè Football Federation and declare our readiness to resume activities from December 30, 2023.” The crisis emerged from the clubs’ demand for the resignation of Lazare Banssé, the president of the Burkinabè Football Federation, citing poor management. Despite mediation efforts by Jean Yaméogo, the president of the Burkinabè National Olympic Sports Committee, a resolution had been elusive until now.

According to David Yaméogo, president of the Faso Athletic Club (FAC, D2), the change in stance followed discussions with the minister in charge of agriculture, Commander Sombié Ismaël. “Our conversation was cordial, and he conveyed the President of Faso’s vision regarding social cohesion and the football crisis. He urged us towards de-escalation for the nation’s best interest and emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a peaceful environment for football development,” Yaméogo explained.

The conflict led to the suspension of championships for around twenty first and second division clubs, who were protesting delayed state subsidies for financing smaller category championships.

With the boycott now suspended, the national championships, which were halted after the 10th day in D1 and the 5th day in D2, are likely to resume shortly. The Professional Football League, the organizer of these competitions, is expected to restart activities in the coming days.