The Malagasy Football Federation elected its new president in a vote validated by the national electoral commission. Alfred Randriamanampisoa, former outgoing vice-president and founding president of the Elgeco Plus club, won 14 of the 22 votes allocated by the presidents of the regional leagues, thus conferring on him the title of new president of the federation.
This election marks a turning point in the history of Malagasy football, with the hope that new perspectives and opportunities will open up for the development of sport in the country. Alfred Randriamanampisoa, aged 46, is also a deputy for Anstirabe in Madagascar, elected under the banner of the IRD party, the party of outgoing president Andry Rajoelina. Its proximity to political power could offer it advantages, particularly in terms of financing for the federation and regional leagues.
However, the new president is keen to emphasize that it was not his relationship with power that made the difference during the election. According to him, it was the work he did as vice-president of the FMF and his collaboration with the presidents of the regional leagues that gave him an advantage. In particular, he invested in the equipment necessary for playing football in the regions, which was appreciated by local football players.
If the Malagasy Football Federation is often approached by politicians for the visibility it offers, notably thanks to the performances of the national team, the new president affirms that his election has nothing to do with politics. He highlights the need for close collaboration between the federation and the State to improve football, specifying that this is a reality in many countries, African or European.
Alfred Randriamanampisoa’s mandate will focus on qualifications for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup. He also promises to actively support women’s football, highlighting the importance of giving women the same opportunities of practice and development than men.
Finally, the new president announces a break with his predecessor, Raoul Rabekoto, who has been on the run since 2020 and was convicted in absentia in 2021 for embezzlement. This new era thus opens new perspectives for Malagasy football and paves the way for a stronger and more ethical development of sport in the country.
In conclusion, the election of Alfred Randriamanampisoa as new president of the Malagasy Football Federation marks a turning point in the history of sport in the country. His political background and his commitment to the development of football in the regions make him a promising leader. Expectations are now high in terms of results and support for Malagasy football, particularly through the development of women’s football.. This new era thus opens up new perspectives for sport in the country and allows us to envisage a promising future for players and football enthusiasts in Madagascar.