The Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo are facing controversy even before playing their first match at the Africa Cup of Nations. Since their departure from Abu Dhabi to San Pedro, no content relating to the team has been published on social media, which has sparked questions and criticism.
Incomprehension reigns between the Ministry of Sports, the federation and a communications agency responsible for managing the digital presence of the Leopards. No member of the communications team is present in San Pedro, where the Congolese team is staying for its first two matches. This lack of communication gives rise to frustration and criticism from supporters and journalists who are waiting for information on the team.
The situation is all the more surprising as the agency responsible for communications, LG Sports and Consulting, holds the keys to access the federation’s digital platforms. However, no content has been published for several days. The reasons for this lack of communication are unclear, and no one seems willing to provide an explanation.
This situation sparked a wave of criticism and discontent on social networks. Many question the fact that the communications team was not financially supported to travel to Ivory Coast. Some believe that financial priorities have been poorly established, with too many unnecessary people present in Côte d’Ivoire to the detriment of the communications team.
Between the federation, the Ministry of Sports and the communications agency, communication is broken and no one knows who the final decision-maker is. The responsibilities and reasons for this lack of communication remain unclear.
Despite the criticism, the communications agency timidly resumed its publications on social networks after several days of radio silence. However, uncertainty remains over the media coverage of the Leopards and the effectiveness of the team’s communication.
This controversy even before the start of the African Cup of Nations highlights the communication and organizational problems within the Congolese federation. Hopefully this will not disrupt the team’s preparation and performance on the field. The Leopards have the responsibility to proudly represent their country and aim for victory in this long-awaited competition.