Pedophilia scandal: youth coach from Kinshasa banned for 20 years for sexual violence against minors
A new pedophilia scandal has broken out in the world of Congolese football, highlighting the abuse committed by certain coaches towards young players. Jonathan Bukabakwa, former youth coach at Lipopo and Malebo, members of the Kinshasa Urban Football Entente, was found guilty of sexual violence against a minor and was suspended for 20 years by the Ethics Commission independent of FIFA.
This decision follows the revelations of investigative journalist Romain Molina, who highlighted accusations of sexual abuse committed by various Congolese coaches. These revelations had already led to a provisional suspension of Jonathan Bukabakwa for five months.
FIFA has taken measures to combat this scourge by setting up a specific and secure online alert system, allowing confidential reporting of any problems related to the prevention of these abuses. However, despite these measures, it is worrying to note that some accused, including Bertin Maku de Lupopo, have returned to their functions within their club, due to lack of established legal proceedings.
FECOFA also reacted to these accusations by setting up a commission to investigate the existence of a pedophile network in the country. This commission aims to gather evidence that can be used in administrative and disciplinary procedures in accordance with sporting regulations.
This pedophilia scandal within Congolese football highlights the urgency of putting in place strict measures to protect young players. It is crucial that sports federations work closely with judicial authorities to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and that victims receive the support and justice they deserve.
This sad event also highlights the importance of raising awareness among players, parents and supervisors of the risks linked to sexual abuse in sport and of putting in place prevention policies and effective reporting systems. Only by acting together can we guarantee a safe and healthy environment for all young athletes.