- satisfied with organisation attributed to Youth
- Remembers the deadly Rush in Olembe
- cuddles Youth to accept Lions 3rd place prize,
By Bakah Derick
The President of the Republic has expressed satisfaction with the organisation of the just ended 33rd edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Cameroon 2021. According to Paul Biya who is often referred to as the number one sports man of the nation, his wish for Cameroon to organise an impressive football event was fulfilled. He has given credit to the youth for the success recorded.
"On the same occasion a year ago, I expressed the wish that TotalEnergies AFCON, Cameroon 2021 would be the most splendid edition of the Africa Cup of Nations ever organized on our continent. In the end, thanks to the strong mobilization and involvement of all Cameroonians, especially the youth, the sports competition unfolded satisfactorily in several cities of our country, and will certainly be remembered as one of the most successful in the history of African football." Paul Biya said
President Biya started that the successful organisation translates Cameroon's capacity anf ability to address major challenges.
"Indeed, there is reason to be satisfied and legitimately proud about TotalEnergies AFCON, Cameroon 2021 as it was unquestionably not only a great moment of communion for all, but also an excellent opportunity and a splendid showcase for Africa and the entire world to appreciate Cameroon’s plentiful endowments and, in particular, the legendary hospitality, the vitality and dynamism of its people. The country thus demonstrated its capacity to address major challenges." He observed
Mentioning the deadly rush that claimed the lives of eight and injured about 40 at the Olembe Stadium, the President noted that the reopening was as a result of investigations which he ordered.
"Unfortunately, this major sporting event was marked by the death of eight of our compatriots following a stampede at the South entrance to the Olembe Stadium. I wish, once again, to honour the memory of the deceased. I also wish a speedy recovery to the injured, for whom I have ordered free comprehensive medical care. The investigation I ordered and the ensuing measures enabled the reopening of the Olembe Stadium and better traffic flow to the stadium. Therefore, I can say that this unfortunate incident apart, TotalEnergies AFCON, Cameroon 2021 was a resounding success that brings honour not only to Cameroon, but also to Africa as whole."
On the 3rd position won by the indomitable lions, Paul Biya considered it as part of the realities of sports. He has invites the youth to accept the verdict from the field, he has challenged the Lions to prepare for possible future successes.
"Obviously, our common ambition was to lift the Football Africa Cup of Nations and thus add a sixth trophy to the track record of our Indomitable Lions. However, fate decided otherwise. I can understand the disappointment of some, if not, all Cameroonians, especially as the AFCON was hosted on our soil. Nonetheless, you are also aware that sport has its own realities that we must accept with dignity and fairplay. Moreover, football lovers know better than anyone else that you can play well and win a match, just as you can play well and lose. That is why I believe what we must remember at the end of this great sporting festival is the delightful saga of the Indomitable Lions who,throughout, did fairly well. Their fighting spirit and perseverance earned them an honourable third position. I heartily congratulate and urge them to step up preparations in order to confidently engage in the sporting competitions that await them in the coming months." He concluded.