Ethiopian FA To Suspend Women’s League Over Sodomy Allegations

Ethiopian FA To Suspend Women’s League Over Sodomy Allegations

Ibrahim Lateef

The Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) this week threatened to take measures, including suspending the women’s league, following reports of sodomy in the women’s soccer team, BSNSports.com.ng has sourced.

A meeting was held this week to discuss the issue. Sodomy (same sex sexuality) is a criminal offence in Ethiopia.

Over 98 percent of the Ethiopian people practice either Christianity and Islamic faiths. However, the major religions in the country have been struggling with groups from within with an agenda to weaken the institution and religion itself.

Since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government, the entrenchment of social practices and cultural values in Western societies has been taking root in the country.

Since Abiy Ahmed took over power, Western powers have been noticeably exercising growing policy influence over the government.

Abiy Ahmed’s government has embarked on several urban development projects with a goal – among others – to make the country a tourist destination. And the funding sources are unknown to the parliament or the public.

The sodomy scandal plaguing women's football, as revealed on social media, pushed the Federation along the line, initiating a meeting of stakeholders, including Women and Social Affairs, Sports Commission, Ethiopian Women Football Coach Professional Association, and Ethiopian Football fans association, among others.

The Federation vowed that those whose allegations are verified with evidence will be charged. It is also recommended that they be taken to rehabilitation.

Borkena’s reporter based in Addis Ababa reported that Police and INSA are authorized to undertake investigation anytime including the facility of the clubs.

They are said to investigate owners of clubs, coaches and entities directly related to the matter. It remains to be seen whether the action is lip service or a real action in the interest of Ethiopian society.