The independent Ethics Committee's adjudicatory chamber has banned Mr. Jonathan Bukabakwa, a former youth coach at clubs in the Congo DR, from all football-related activities for 20 years. This decision comes after Mr. Bukabakwa was found guilty of sexually abusing a minor football player. Additionally, a fine of CHF 100,000 has been imposed on him.
This case originated from serious allegations of sexual abuse of minors within the Congo DR Football Association (FECOFA), which were reported on various media platforms. Multiple football coaches from different regions and leagues in the Congo DR were accused of abusing minor players. As a result, Mr. Bukabakwa was provisionally suspended for five months earlier this year.
The adjudicatory chamber's decision considered the evidence gathered during the investigations and concluded that Mr. Bukabakwa had violated Article 24 (Protection of physical and mental integrity) of the Code of Ethics. The decision took effect today, with grounds for the decision to be provided within the next 60 days, following the FIFA Code of Ethics.
This action aligns with FIFA's zero tolerance approach towards all forms of abuse in football. FIFA has continuously updated its regulatory framework to enhance protection for victims of discrimination and sexual abuse or harassment. FIFA also offers a secure and confidential whistleblowing system for reporting safeguarding concerns.
