Following the resignation of Augustin Senghor as First Vice-president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Rodney Michael, the West African Football Union (WAFU) Representative to the African Club Association (ACA), is strongly advocating for the appointment of Liberia Football Association (LFA) President, Mustapha Raji, as Senghor’s successor.
In a statement made public on Thursday, Michael expressed his belief that Mustapha Raji is the ideal candidate for the role, citing his inclusive leadership style and deep understanding of African football. “Given the disregard for Anglophone countries in the FIFA Council election, I would recommend that Dr. Patrice Motsepe appoint Liberia’s Mustapha Raji as First Vice-President,” Michael said. “He connects well with everyone and brings an inclusive approach to African football.”
Michael emphasized the importance of fair representation for smaller nations within CAF, noting that Liberia, under Raji’s leadership, would offer a powerful voice for those countries. “Liberia will be a powerful voice for the smaller nations, and Mustapha Raji will provide the assurance that their voices will be heard. He will stand as a protector against the overwhelming influence of the bigger nations. I trust Dr. Motsepe will see the value of such a leadership choice,” Michael added.
Raji, who also serves as Vice-President of WAFU A, was re-elected unopposed for a second term as a member of the CAF Executive Committee. During his tenure, he has been a staunch advocate for the interests of smaller nations, earning respect from various corners of the African football community for his approach to decision-making and his ability to build bridges between diverse footballing cultures.
As one of only three Exco members from an Anglophone country, alongside Kurt Okraku of Ghana and Isayas Jira Bosho of Ethiopia, Raji has proven himself a key figure in representing the Anglophone community within the CAF structure. His re-election to the CAF Executive Committee underscores his standing within African football.
With Dr. Patrice Motsepe’s leadership steering CAF toward a more inclusive future, the appointment of Mustapha Raji as First Vice-President would further solidify the organization’s commitment to fair representation and development across the African continent.
Michael’s endorsement of Raji underscores the growing support for inclusive leadership within African football as the continent continues to strive for unity and balanced growth within the sport.