Burkinabè Football Supporters Urge Dialogue to Resolve Federation Crisis

Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – The Association of Supporters for the Development of Burkinabè Football (AS-DFB) held a press conference in Ouagadougou on Friday, urging both the rebel clubs and the Burkinabè Football Federation (FBF) to engage in dialogue. This call is aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis and facilitating the resumption of Ligue 1.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Abdoul Aziz Zongo, the president of AS-DFB, emphasized the need for both parties to prioritize dialogue. “As passionate supporters, we are calling for both sides to transcend their differences for the good of Burkinabè football. We want to return to the excitement of matches in our stadiums,” Zongo stated.

With the upcoming African Cup of Nations (CAN) where the national team, the Stallions, will represent Burkina Faso, the AS-DFB is pressing for a resolution. Zongo urged the conflicting parties to engage in sincere discussions to ensure unity and cohesion, which are crucial for the country’s successful participation in the tournament.

The AS-DFB also acknowledged the efforts of various mediators who have attempted to defuse tensions between the two sides. The association reiterated its call for reconciliation, highlighting the broader context of national challenges, including the security situation and the plight of displaced persons and families affected by conflict.

The crisis in Burkinabè football began when around twenty first and second division clubs suspended their participation in the championships. This suspension, lasting almost two months, was a protest against delays in receiving state subsidies meant to finance smaller category championships. The rebel clubs had also called for the resignation of the FBF president, Lazare Banssé, as a precondition for resuming Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches.