constitution for fecafoot - Fecafoot
Transcription
constitution for fecafoot - Fecafoot
FECAFOOT STATUTES (Adopted by the Extraordinary General Assembly of 23 August 2014) Table of Contents DEFINITIONS CHAPTER I: General Provisions CHAPTER II: Membership CHAPTER III: Honorary President and Honorary Member CHAPTER IV: Organization Section 1: Generalities Section 2: General Assembly Section 3: Executive Committee Section 4: Federation President, Chairman of Executive Committee Section 5: Emergency Committee Section 6: Standing and ad hoc Committees Section 7: Judicial bodies Section 8: General Secretariat Section 9: Other organs CHAPTER V: Finance 1 CHAPTER VI: Competitions and dues from competitions and events CHAPTER VII: International matches and competitions CHAPTER VIII: Miscellaneous, Transitional and Final Provisions DEFINITIONS The terms below shall be construed as follows: Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT): member association of FIFA and CAF. UNIFFAC: Union of Football Federations in Central Africa. CAF: Confederation of African Football. IFAB: International Football Association Board. Regional League: Regional Association subordinate to FECAFOOT. Specialized league: subordinate league to which FECAFOOT delegates authority to organize championships or any other competition within its jurisdiction on its behalf. Confederation: group of associations recognized by FIFA and belonging to the same continent or geographic region. Club: Member of a football association (itself a member of FIFA) or of a league recognized by an association, with at least one team taking part in a competition. Official: Any officer, member of a committee, referee, linesman, coach, trainer and any other person (excluding players) responsible for technical, medical and administrative matters within FIFA, a confederation, association, league or club, and any other person required to comply with the FIFA Statutes. Player: Any football player registered with FECAFOOT and holds a valid license. 2 Trades Associations: Group of sports interests represented by the players’ associations, coaches and football instructors, referees and linesmen, and personnel of sports. General Assembly: Legislative branch and supreme organ of FECAFOOT. Executive Committee: Executive Body of FECAFOOT. Emergency Committee: Restricted group within the Executive Committee. Member: Natural person or corporate entity recognized by the FECAFOOT General Assembly. Association football: game controlled by FIFA and organized according to the Laws of the Game IFAB: International Football Association Board. Ordinary courts: State Courts, which decide on public and private legal disputes. Arbitration tribunal: Private court of justice intervening instead of an ordinary court. FECAFOOT arbitration tribunal: Independent private court of justice, duly constituted by FECAFOOT and intervening in place of a regular court. CAS: Court of Arbitration for Sport sitting in Lausanne (Switzerland). CCA: Board of Conciliation and Arbitration established within the Cameroon National Olympic and Sports Committee. OAPI : African Intellectual Property Organization. NB: the masculine gender used for brevity also applies to the feminine, just as the singular may apply to the plural and vice-versa. 3 CHAPTER I: GENERAL PROVISIONS Article 1: Name, Headquarters and Legal Form. 1. The Cameroon Football Federation hereinafter referred to as "FECAFOOT" or "Federation", founded in 1959, is a sports federation established under the laws and regulations in force in Cameroon and governed by these Statutes and regulations resulting there from. 2. Its duration is unlimited. 3. Its seat shall be in Yaoundé. 4. The Cameroon Football Federation was affiliated to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) in 1962 and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 1963. As such, it shall itself be bound by, and ensure compliance by its members with, the Statutes, regulations, directives and decisions of FIFA, CAF and FECAFOOT. 5. The Federation's flag shall be white marked in the centre with the FECAFOOT logo. 6. The logo of the Federation shall be a green, red and yellow shield struck with a gold star and a football centred on the red band; the shield shall be bordered on the top by the word "CAMEROUN" written in gold capital letters on a black background. The same shield lies on a parchment cartridge bearing the word "FECAFOOT" in gold capital letters on a black background. The shield is fully lined with black thread while the title block is lined with a golden thread. 7. The acronym of the Federation shall be "FECAFOOT." 8. The flag, logo and acronym are legally registered with OAPI (African Intellectual Property Organization). Article 2: Relations with the Ministry in charge of sports 4. FECAFOOT shall be regularly approved by the Ministry in charge of sports, in accordance with the laws and regulations. It contributes in the performance of a public utility mission and as such receives delegation from the Minister in charge of sports. 1. The Federation shall inform the Minister in charge of Sports and the Minister in charge of Territorial Administration of all amendments to its organic enactments thirty (30) days at the latest after their adoption. Under the same conditions, it shall inform the same ministers of all changes in the composition of the executive organ of the Federation. 2. Administrative documents of FECAFOOT and its accounting documents relating to grants provided by the State shall be presented without movement on any requisition of the Minister in charge of sports. 4 3. FECAFOOT may inform the Minister in charge of sports on the functioning of its institutions. Article 3: Goals FECAFOOT aims to: 1) Continuously improve, promote, control and regulate football all over the entire Cameroonian territory taking into account fair play and its universal, educational, cultural and humanitarian impact, by implementing and development programmes for the youth; 2) Organize association football competitions in all its forms at the national level, precisely defining, if need be, the purview granted to the various leagues which comprise them; 3) Establish rules and provisions and ensure their enforcement; 4) Safeguard the common interests of its members; 5) Comply with the Statutes, regulations, directives and decisions of FIFA, CAF and FECAFOOT as well as the Laws of the Game in order to prevent infringements and ensure that they are observed by its members; 6) Promote integrity, ethics and sportsmanship so as to prevent such methods and practices as corruption, doping and match fixing, from endangering the integrity of the games, competitions, players, officials and members or give rise to abuse of association football; 7) Control and supervise all friendly matches of association football in all its forms taking place throughout the territory of Cameroon; 8) Manage international sporting relations of association football in all its forms; 9) Host international competitions or others; 10) Ensure the participation of clubs representing Cameroon in international competitions in accordance with the laws and regulations; 11) Establish and manage national teams representing Cameroon in international competitions; 12) Represent all football clubs and national teams affiliated to it at global, continental and regional organizations; 13) Maintain collaborative relationships with governments and national and international sports organizations; 14) Create ancillary organizations necessary to accomplish its missions. Article 4: Neutrality and non-discrimination 1. FECAFOOT shall be neutral from a political and religious point of view. 5 2. Any discrimination of a country, individual or group of persons by a member of FECAFOOT on grounds of race, ethnicity, gender, language, religion and politics or otherwise is automatically prohibited, under penalty of suspension or expulsion. Article 5: Promotion of friendly relations 1. FECAFOOT shall commit to promoting friendly relations among its members, clubs, officials and players as well as within civil society, for humanitarian purposes. 2. Any person and organization involved in football is bound to observe the Statutes, regulations, principles of fair play, loyalty, integrity, sportsmanship and nondiscrimination. 3. FECAFOOT shall set up justice bodies for resolving disputes between its members, clubs, officials and players. Article 6: Players 1. The status of players and transfer arrangements are governed by FECAFOOT, in accordance with FIFA Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players and the Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players between Clubs affiliated under FECAFOOT. 2. Players must be registered in accordance with the General Regulations of FECAFOOT. Article 7: Laws of the Game 1. The Laws of the Game of association football shall apply to FECAFOOT and all its members. Only the International Football Association Board (IFAB) has the power to enact and amend same. 2. The Laws of the Game of Futsal and Beach Soccer apply to FECAFOOT and all its members. FIFA alone is empowered to enact and amend them. Article 8: Conduct of organs, officials and players The Organs, officials and players of FECAFOOT must comply with the Statutes, regulations, directives, decisions, Disciplinary Code, Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct of FIFA, CAF and FECAFOOT. Article 9: Official Languages 1. The official languages of FECAFOOT shall be French and English. Official documents and enactments must be written in both languages. 6 2. In case of discrepancy in the texts in both languages, recourse shall be done to a commission of experts. CHAPTER II: MEMBERSHIP Article 10: Admission, suspension and expulsion 1. The General Assembly shall decide on the admission, suspension and expulsion of members. 2. Admission may only be validated if the candidate meets the criteria established by FECAFOOT. 3. Membership is lost by resignation or expulsion. The loss of membership does not relieve the member of its outstanding financial obligations vis-à-vis FECAFOOT or other members. It relieves it of its rights. Article 11: Composition and Admission 1. FECAFOOT members shall be: a) The Professional Football League in Cameroon representing professional football; b) The regional leagues representing amateur football; c) The players' association; d) The association of football coaches and instructors; e) The association of referees and linesmen; f) The association of Sports Medicine personnel g) The specialized youth football league; h) The specialized Futsal league; i) The specialized women's football league; j) The specialized beach soccer league; k) The specialized corporate and veterans football league. 2. Leagues approved by FECAFOOT shall enjoy administrative, financial and sports autonomy. 3. For each trade, the Federation shall only recognize one association. 4. Membership is granted by the General Assembly of FECAFOOT. 5. Any corporate entity wishing to become a FECAFOOT member must apply in writing to the Secretary-General of FECAFOOT. Such an application must be accompanied by: a) a copy of its Bylaws and Regulations; 7 b) a declaration by which it agrees to comply under all circumstances with the Statutes, Regulations, Decisions, Disciplinary Code, Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct of FECAFOOT, FIFA and CAF and ensure the same compliance from its members, clubs, officials and players; c) a declaration by which it undertakes to comply with the Laws of the Game in force; d) a declaration that it recognizes that it is located within the territory of FECAFOOT; e) a declaration that it recognizes the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) based in Lausanne, Switzerland, as specified in these Statutes; f) a declaration by which it certifies that it will not bring issues of interpretation and application of the Statutes, Regulations, Directives and Decisions of FIFA, CAF and FECAFOOT before ordinary courts unless FIFA, CAF or FECAFOOT provides for or prescribes such a remedy from the ordinary courts; g) a statement that it recognizes it carries on business within the sphere of competence of FECAFOOT; h) a statement in which it undertakes to organize all official home meetings within FECAFOOT territory; i) a statement that its legal set-up ensures that the candidate is able to make decisions without the influence of an external entity; j) a list of officials, indicating those who, by their signature, can enter into legally binding agreements with third parties; k) a statement in which it undertakes to organize or participate in friendly encounters only after prior approval by FECAFOOT; l) a copy of the minutes of its last General Assembly or constituent session; m) a certified copy of the legal authorization granted by the competent administrative authorities. Article 12: Application and application procedure 1. The admission procedure shall be governed by special rules approved by the Executive Committee of FECAFOOT. 1. The Executive Committee shall recommend the admission or rejection of the candidate to the General Assembly. The candidate may support its application before the General Assembly. 2. A new member acquires the rights and is subject to the obligations arising from its status as soon as it has been admitted. 8 Article 13: Rights of Members 1. FECAFOOT members shall enjoy the right: a) to participate in the General Assembly of FECAFOOT, to know the agenda of the General Assembly in advance, to be summoned thereto in time; b) to formulate proposals for items on the agenda and exercise the right to vote; c) to be informed of the affairs of FECAFOOT by the General Secretariat; d) to propose candidates for elections in all organs of FECAFOOT; e) to take part in competitions (if applicable) and/or sports activities under the auspices of FECAFOOT; f) to exercise all other rights pertaining to the Statutes and Regulations of FECAFOOT. 2. The exercise of such rights shall be subject to the exceptions and reservations under other provisions hereof and applicable regulations. Article 14: Obligations of members 1. FECAFOOT members shall be under the obligation to: a) observe the Statutes, regulations, directives and decisions of FIFA, CAF and FECAFOOT and enforce compliance therewith by their own members; b) ensure the election of their decision-making bodies; c) convene their supreme and legislative body at regular intervals, usually once a year; d) take part in competitions (if applicable) and other sporting activities under the auspices of FECAFOOT; e) pay their contributions; f) comply with the Laws of the Game as determined by IFAB and through a statutory provision enforce compliance therewith by their own members; g) adopt a statutory provision that all arbitral disputes involving themselves or one of their members and relating to the Statutes, Regulations, Directives and Decisions of FIFA, CAF, UNIFFAC, FECAFOOT or of the leagues that comprise it will be exclusively subject to the jurisdiction of the adjudicating organs of FECAFOOT, CNOSC, CAF, FIFA and CAS, and that any recourse to ordinary courts is prohibited; h) inform FECAFOOT of any changes to their Statutes and Regulations, list of their officials or persons who by their signature are authorized to legally commit them vis-à-vis third parties; i) have no relationship with unrecognized sports entities or with members who have been suspended or expelled by FECAFOOT, CAF or FIFA; 9 2. observe, through a statutory provision, the principles of loyalty, integrity, sportsmanship and non-discrimination as an expression of fair play; j) comply throughout their membership with the mandatory requirements set forth in these Statutes; k) keep a register of members; l) ratify bylaws that comply with the requirements stipulated in the Statutes of FECAFOOT; m) to fully comply with the other obligations under the Statutes, Codes and Regulations of FIFA, CAF, UNIFFAC and FECAFOOT. 2. Any member of the executive body of a member of FECAFOOT shall be bound by the duty of reserve and loyalty. He must refrain from participating in debates outside this member and taking decisions thereat that may cause a conflict of interest with another member of FECAFOOT or permanently disrupt the functioning of the Federation. 3. Any violation of these obligations shall result in sanctions provided under these Statutes and the various codes in force. Article 15: Suspension 1.The General Assembly has the power to suspend a member. Any member guilty of serious and repeated violations of its obligations may be suspended with immediate effect by the Executive Committee. If the suspension is not lifted by the latter within 4 (four) months, it shall remain valid until the next General Assembly. 2.Suspension shall be confirmed at the next General Assembly by at least two-thirds (2/3) of the valid votes cast, otherwise it is immediately lifted. 3.The suspension of a member shall entail the loss of such rights as conferred by its status. It is forbidden for other members to maintain sporting links with a suspended member. The Federal Commission for Approval and Discipline may impose other sanctions. 4.Members not participating in FECAFOOT sports activities during a sports season shall be suspended from their right to vote in the General Assembly and their representatives cannot be elected or convened as long as they have not fulfilled their obligations in this regard. It is the same for any league which did not organize competitions for the sports season or for trades associations that did not hold their General Assembly. To this end, the Secretary-General at the end of each sports season shall draw up a detailed and comprehensive report of the activities of members. 10 Article 16: Expulsion 1. The General Assembly may expel any member: a) who fails to fulfil its financial commitments to FECAFOOT; b) who is guilty of violating the Statutes, Regulations, Directives and Decisions of FIFA, CAF and FECAFOOT. 2. Any expulsion shall require the attendance of the majority (over 50%) of members of the General Assembly exercising the right to vote and shall require threequarters (3/4) of the votes validly cast. Article 17: Resignation 1. Any member may resign at any time from FECAFOOT. It must submit its written resignation letter by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt to the Secretary-General at least 6 (six) months before the end of the fiscal year. 2. Resignation shall become legally valid only when the member meets its financial obligations vis-à-vis FECAFOOT and other members. Article 18: Independence of the members of FECAFOOT and their organs 1. Each FECAFOOT member shall manage its affairs independently without the interference of a third party. 2. the organs of members of FECAFOOT can only be designated by election or internal appointment. Member's Statutes shall provide for a procedure that guarantees complete independence for the election or appointment process. 3. FECAFOOT shall not recognize the organs of a member which have not been elected or appointed in accordance with paragraph 2. This also applies to organs elected or appointed only on an interim basis. 4. FECAFOOT shall not recognize the decisions of bodies that have not been elected or appointed in accordance with paragraph 2. Article 19: Bylaws of clubs, specialized leagues and regional leagues 1. Clubs, specialized leagues and regional leagues are subject to FECAFOOT and must be recognized by it. There must be one and only one professional football league, youth football, women’s football, Futsal, Beach Soccer and corporate and veterans football within the territory of FECAFOOT. The competences, rights and obligations of these clubs and these leagues are specified in these Statutes. Their Bylaws and regulations must comply with the standard bylaws developed by FECAFOOT and approved by the Executive Committee of FECAFOOT. 11 2. Each league and club affiliated to FECAFOOT must be able to take all the decisions deriving from its FECAFOOT membership independently of any external entity. This obligation applies regardless of its legal form. 3. In all cases, no natural person or corporate entity (holding company and its subsidiaries) may control more than one club when that may undermine the integrity of the game or competition. CHAPTER III: HONORARY PRESIDENT AND HONORARY MEMBER Article 20: Unique 1. The General Assembly may grant the title of honorary president or honorary member to some personalities in respect of services rendered to the cause of football. 2. Their nomination shall be by the Executive Committee. 3. The Honorary President or Honorary Member may attend the General Assembly in an advisory capacity. CHAPTER IV: ORGANIZATION Section 1: GENERAL Article 21: Bodies of FECAFOOT 1. The following shall be bodies of FECAFOOT: a) The General Assembly, legislature and supreme organ; b) The Executive Committee: executive body; c) The standing and ad hoc committees; d) Judicial bodies: the Federal Homologation and Disciplinary Committee, the Appeals Board, the National Disputes Resolution Chamber, the Ethics Commission, the Electoral Commission, the Electoral Appeals Commission and the Tribunal of Arbitration of FECAFOOT; e) The General Secretariat, the administrative body; 2.FECAFOOT bodies shall either be elected or appointed by FECAFOOT itself without outside influence and in accordance with the procedures described in these Statutes. 12 Section 2: THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY Article 22: Definition and composition 1. The General Assembly is the organ to which all FECAFOOT members are regularly convened. It is the supreme organ and legislative authority of FECAFOOT. Only a duly convened General Assembly has the power to make decisions. 2. The General Assembly may be ordinary or extraordinary. 3. The FECAFOOT President presides over the General Assembly. 4. The President of FECAFOOT may invite observers to attend the General Assembly, without the right to vote or participate in discussions. 5. The Honorary President or Honorary Member may participate in the General Assembly in an advisory capacity. Article 23: Delegates and votes 1. The General Assembly shall comprise 92 (ninety-two) delegates as follows: a) the Professional Football League of Cameroon represented by 12 (twelve) delegates from first division clubs and 8 (eight) delegates from second division clubs each with 1 (one) vote; b) the ten (10) regional leagues representing amateur football, each represented by 5 (five) delegates representing trades associations each with 1 (one) vote; c) youth specialized football league represented by 5 (five) delegates each with 1 (one) vote; d) women's specialized football league represented by 5 (five) delegates each with 1 (one) vote; e) Futsal specialized League represented by 2 (two) delegates each with 1 (one) vote; f) Beach Soccer specialized League represented by 1 (one)delegate with 1 (one) vote; g) corporate and veterans specialized football league represented by 1 (one) delegate with (1)one vote; h) the players' association approved by FECAFOOT represented by 2(two) delegates each with one (01) vote, including a former national team player with at least 10 (ten) selections national A team and the Captain of the national A team; i) the association of football coaches and instructors approved by FECAFOOT represented by 2 (two) delegates each with one (01) vote; j) the association of referees and linesmen approved by FECAFOOT represented by 2 (two) delegates (one of whom is still active) each with 1 (one) vote; 13 k) the association of sports medicine personnel approved by FECAFOOT represented by 2 (two) delegates with 1 (one) vote each. 2. In no event shall the total number of votes allocated to one of the categories above (Professional Football League Cameroon, specialized leagues, regional leagues or associations of trades) exceed 50% of the total expressible votes in the General Assembly as a whole. 3. FECAFOOT shall invite the Minister for Sport and the Minister in charge of Territorial Administration to appoint 2 (two) government commissioners to the General Assembly as observers. They are neither voters nor eligible and do not participate in the debates. 4. Only affiliated members of FECAFOOT may appoint delegates to the General Assembly. 5. Delegates must be part of the member association or league they represent and shall be elected by the competent authority of the member association or league. They must be able to produce evidence thereof upon request. 6. The representatives of trades associations shall be elected by their General Assembly which shall delegate them to the FECAFOOT General Assembly. 7. Only delegates in attendance may vote. They cannot vote by correspondence or by proxy. 8. Members of the Executive Committee, the Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary-General may attend the General Assembly as observers. 9. During their term of office, the Executive Committee members shall not be appointed as delegates of their association. Article 24: Appointment of Delegates 1. Members shall by election designate their duly authorized official delegates to represent them. 2. Members shall within seventy-two (72) hours following the holding of their elective General Assembly communicate to the General Secretariat of FECAFOOT their list of delegates. 3. Members shall provide their delegates a warrant attesting to their powers. 4. The following may not be delegates to the General Assembly: a) persons against whom disqualifications were imposed under the relevant provisions of the Penal Code; b) persons convicted of felony, even by default; c) persons sentenced to a definite term of imprisonment without suspension exceeding 3 (three) months; 14 d) persons sentenced to a definite term of imprisonment subject to a suspended sentence or probation of more than 6 (six) months; e) an undischarged insolvent who was declared bankrupt either by a Cameroonian court or by a judgment rendered abroad and enforceable in Cameroon; f) persons with mental disorders recognized by a panel of expert medical specialists in the courts. Article 25: Purview The General Assembly shall have the following powers: 1. Adopt or amend the Constitution and Electoral Code; 2. Designate 3 (three) members to check the minutes of the last session, which must be approved by the General Assembly; 3. Elect the President of FECAFOOT, Chairman of the Executive Committee; 4. Elect members of the Executive Committee; 5. Elect or dismiss the chairmen, vice-chairmen, rapporteurs and members of judicial bodies, upon the proposal of the Executive Committee; 6. Appoint two scrutineers; 7. Approve the annual accounts; 8. Approve the regular budget, special budgets and programme budgets; 9. Approve the activity report of the President; 10. Appoint an independent audit firm on the proposal of the Executive Committee; 11. Determine the amount of contributions on the proposal of the Executive Committee; 12. Confer or withdraw, on the proposal of the Executive Committee, the title of Honorary President or honorary member on a person who has particularly committed or distinguished himself in football in FECAFOOT or expel him; 13. Admit, suspend or expel a member; 14. élire ou révoquer les membres de la Commission d’Audit et de Conformité 15. Revoke the mandate of one or more members of a board of FECAFOOT; 16. Take decisions at the request of a Member in accordance with these Statutes; 17. Accept the resignation of a member; 18. Formulate and make recommendations and wishes; 19. Dissolve FECAFOOT; 20. Elect or dismiss members of the Audit and Compliance Commission. 15 Article 26: Quorum of the General Assembly . 1. The General Assembly may validly take decisions only when the majority (over 50%) of delegates representing the members are present. 2. If the quorum is not attained, a second session of the General Assembly shall automatically take place after the first 24 hours, with the same agenda. 3. There is no quorum requirement for this second session, unless an item on the agenda provides for the amendment of the FECAFOOT Statutes, the election of the President of FECAFOOT and members of the Executive Committee, the revocation of one or more members of a board of FECAFOOT, the expulsion of a member of FECAFOOT or the dissolution of FECAFOOT. 4. An attendance sheet initialled before the consideration of the agenda shall be attached to the minutes to attest to the compliance with the quorum requirement. The subsequent departure of one or more delegates shall not affect the quorum. Article 27: Decisions of the General Assembly 1. Unless otherwise provided in these Statutes, decisions shall be taken by a majority (over 50%) of the votes validly cast. Void ballots, blank ballots, or any other form of abstention shall not be taken into account in calculating the majority. 2. Any decision requiring a vote shall be taken by a show of hands. If the show of hands does not allow a clear majority in favour of a proposal, the vote shall be taken by roll call, the members being called in alphabetical order. 3. However, the General Assembly may decide to vote by secret ballot. Article 28: Annual General Assembly 1. The Ordinary General Assembly shall be convened by the Executive Committee of FECAFOOT once a year preferably during the month preceding the start of the season, and in any case before 15 April. 2. Announcements by the Executive Committee of a regular session of a non elective General Assembly shall be made to all members twenty-one (21) days prior to the session. The announcement by the Executive Committee of a regular session of an Elective General Assembly must be made to all members ninety (90) days prior to the session. 3. Formal notice shall be in writing at least 7 (seven) days before the date of the General Assembly. The agenda, the activity report of the President, the annual accounts, the report of the independent auditors and any other relevant document shall be sent at the same time as the notice. 16 Article 29: Agenda of the Ordinary General Assembly 1. The Secretary-General shall prepare the draft agenda on the basis of proposals from the Executive Committee and from members. The proposal that a Member intends to submit to the General Assembly must be made in writing to the Secretary-General of FECAFOOT at least 15 (fifteen) days before the date of the General Assembly. These proposals shall be briefly motivated. 2. The agenda shall include: a) the compliance of the summons and of the composition of the General Assembly with the FECAFOOT Statutes; b) approval of the agenda; c) the President's address; d) the appointment of 3 (three) delegates to control the minutes; e) the appointment of 2 (two) scrutineers ; f) the suspension or expulsion of a member (if applicable); g) approval of the minutes of the previous General Assembly; h) the activity report of the President; i) the presentation of the consolidated and revised balance sheet and the profit and loss account statement; j) approval of the annual accounts, after presentation by the independent auditors; k) approval of the regular budget, special budgets and programme budgets; l) the admission of new members, if any; m) the vote on proposals to amend the Statutes and Electoral Code (if applicable); n) the appointment of independent auditors (if any) on the proposal of the Executive Committee; o) the revocation of a member of a body (if applicable); p) the election of the President of FECAFOOT, Chairman of the Executive Committee (if applicable); q) the election of members of the Executive Committee (if applicable); r) the election or removal of the Chairman, vice chairman, rapporteur and members of the judicial bodies of FECAFOOT (if applicable); s) any other item proposed by the members or the Executive Committee of FECAFOOT in compliance with paragraph 1 above; t) the election of members of the Audit and Compliance Commission. 3. The agenda of an ordinary General Assembly may be amended at the request of two thirds (2/3) of the delegates present at the General Assembly and entitled to vote. 17 4. The General Assembly may not take any decision on an item that is not on the agenda. Article 30: Elections 1. Elections shall be by secret ballot. 2. FECAFOOT Elections and election of members of FECAFOOT must be made in accordance with the Electoral Code of FECAFOOT. 3. The election of the Executive Committee and the office of President shall be by list. For the election of a list, a majority (over 50%) of the votes validly cast shall be necessary in the first round. Void or blank ballots shall not be considered in the counting of votes cast. 4. For the election of chairpersons, vice-chairpersons and members of all other FECAFOOT organs (e.g. Audit and Compliance Commission, judicial bodies) with the exception of the National Disputes Resolution Chamber, candidate(s) receiving the most votes with respect to the seat(s) to be filled shall be elected. 5. If at the first ballot no candidate or list won the majority (over 50%), there shall be a runoff between the 2 (two) candidates or lists with the most votes. 6. In case of a tie in the second round, there shall be additional ballot rounds until the required majority is obtained (over 50%). 7. The electoral process shall be regulated by the Federal Electoral Code prepared by the Executive Committee and adopted by the General Assembly. Article 31: Extraordinary General Assembly 1. The General Assembly may be convened in extraordinary session as appropriate: a) at the initiative of the President of FECAFOOT, Chairman of the Executive Committee; b) at the request of two thirds (2/3) of members of the Executive Committee; c) at the request of a number of delegates to the General Assembly representing half of the votes in accordance with Article 23 hereof. 2. The business to be transacted shall be submitted in the application. The Extraordinary General Assembly shall be held within 2 (two) months after receipt of the request. If this is not the case, the members who requested the convening of the General Assembly can convene it themselves. As a last resort, they can take the matter to FIFA. 3. Invitations to an extraordinary session of the General Assembly, written in French and English, should be sent to all members 8 (eight) days prior to the session. 4. The venue, date and agenda shall be communicated to members at least eight (08) days before the date of the Extraordinary General Assembly. 18 5. When the Extraordinary General Assembly is convened on the initiative of the Executive Committee, the latter shall determine the agenda. When convened at the request of members, the agenda must contain the points raised by them. 6. No changes can be made to the agenda of an extraordinary General Assembly. Article 32: Amendment to the Statutes and the Electoral Code 1. The General Assembly has the power to amend the Constitution and the Electoral Code. 2. Proposals to amend the Statutes, written with a brief explanation must be sent to the Secretary-General by the members of the General Assembly or the Executive Committee. Any proposal by a delegate representing a member is valid if it is supported in writing by at least 10 (ten) delegates from other members. 3. For a change to the Statutes to be submitted to a vote, the majority (over 50%) of delegates representing members must be in attendance. 4. To be adopted, a request to amend the Statutes must receive the votes of at least 2/3 (two thirds) of the delegates representing the members in attendance. 5. The written proposed amendments to the Electoral Code with a brief explanation may be sent to the Secretary-General by the delegates representing members of the General Assembly or the Executive Committee. 6. A proposal to amend the Electoral Code shall be adopted only if it obtains the majority (over 50%) of the votes validly cast. Article 33: Proceedings of the General Assembly 1. The General Assembly shall be chaired by the President of FECAFOOT, Chairman of the Executive Committee. 2. If the President is absent or unable to attend, it shall be chaired by the First Vice President. If the latter is also absent or unable to attend, it shall be chaired by the oldest among the Vice-Presidents. If none of the vice-presidents are present, it shall be chaired by the oldest member in age of the Executive Committee. 3. The work of the General Assembly relating to the election of the President of FECAFOOT and other members of the Executive Committee shall be conducted by the Electoral Commission. The President and members of the Executive Committee shall participate in these works as observers. 4. The General Assembly shall appoint 2 (two) scrutineers. 5. Delegates shall express themselves in either French or English. 6. The Chair shall be responsible for the smooth running of the General Assembly. For this purpose, he may limit the speaking time allowed delegates. 19 7. The General Assembly may establish committees to reflect on specific issues. Such committees shall draw up a report of their proceedings that shall be adopted or amended by a resolution taken in plenary session. 8. Minutes of the General Assembly shall be prepared by the Secretary-General who shall send them to Members within 30 (thirty) days following the session of the General Assembly. 9. An Electoral Code adopted by the General Assembly of FECAFOOT shall govern the proceedings of the General Assembly to elect the President of FECAFOOT, Chairman of the Executive Committee and other members of the Executive Committee. Article 34: Entry into force of the decisions 1. Deeds of the General Assembly shall come into force upon their adoption and publication, unless the General Assembly shall fix another date or delegate this authority to the Executive Committee. They are not retroactive, unless they are favourable to their recipients. 2. Numbered deeds, dated and recorded in a collection provided for that purpose, must bear the signature of the session president and secretary. Section 3: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Article 35: Composition 1. The Executive Committee shall be made up of 18 (eighteen) members, including at least one female member, distributed as follows: a) the President of FECAFOOT; b) a first Vice-president; c) a second Vice-president; d) the President of the Professional Football League of Cameroon; e) 14 (fourteen) representatives of regional leagues, distributed as follows : f) A representative of each of the ten (10) regional leagues. - Adamaua region, 1 (one) representative; - Centre region, 2 (two) representatives; - East region, 1 ( one) representative; - Far- North region, 1 (one) representative; 20 - Littoral, 2 (two) representatives; - North region, 2 (two) representatives; - North-West region, 2 (two) representatives; - West region, 2 (two) representatives; - South region, 1 (one) representative ; - South-West, 1 (one) representative; The Vice-presidents shall in any case be, one French-speaking, the other one English-speaking 2. The President and other Executive Committee members, excepting the President of the Professional Football League of Cameroon, shall be elected by list ballot. This list must include a minimum 11 (eleven) delegates to the General Assembly and can contain up to 6 (six) personalities not delegated to this Assembly. 3. Candidacies shall be sent to the General Secretariat of the FECAFOOT at least 60 (sixty) days before the date of the General Assembly. The Secretary-General will inform members and shall make public the lists formalized by the Electoral Commission 15 (fifteen) days before the date of the General Assembly. The official lists of candidates must reach members of FECAFOOT with the agenda of the General Assembly at which the election of the Executive Committee is scheduled 7 (seven) days before the date of the General Assembly. 4. The Executive Committee members receive a representation allowance the amount of which is determined by the Financial Regulations of FECAFOOT. Article 36: Conditions of eligibility 1. Every candidate for membership of the Executive Committee of FECAFOOT must meet the eligibility requirements below: 1. Tout candidat au poste de membre du Comité Exécutif de la FECAFOOT doit remplir les conditions d’éligibilité ci-dessous : a) b) c) d) e) be a Cameroonian citizen enjoying his civil rights; have reached the age of majority; reside in Cameroon; not to have been finally convicted of a felony, even by default; not to have been sentenced to a definite term of imprisonment exceeding 3 (three) months without suspension; f) not to have been sentenced to a definite term of imprisonment subject to a suspended sentence or probation of more than 6 (six) months; 21 g) not to be an undischarged insolvent whose bankruptcy has been declared either by a Cameroonian court or by a judgment rendered abroad and enforceable in Cameroon; h) not to present mental disorders recognized by a panel of expert medical specialists in the courts; i) not to have been convicted of acts contrary to the dignity of the management activity of a sports association (especially doping, corruption, forgery, etc.) within 5 (five) years; j) never to have been denied discharge of his management nor to have been charged with mismanagement by a decision that became final by a competent body; k) not to have been convicted within five years prior to the elective General Assembly to a penalty of suspension of 2 (two years) years minimum on matters of discipline and/or infringement of sporting ethics by a adjudicating organ; l) not to be a debtor of money or securities in respect of FECAFOOT or an association affiliated to FECAFOOT or approved by it. 2. A member of the Executive Committee may not simultaneously be a member of a judicial body of FECAFOOT or delegate to the General Assembly. Article 37: Term of office 1. The term of office of the Chairman and members of the Executive Committee shall be four years, renewable. 2. The term begins at the end of the General Assembly at which the Chairman and other members of the Executive Committee were elected. 3. Their mandate expires at the end of the elective General Assembly. However, the Chairman at the end of term has a maximum of 4 (four) days to complete the transfer of power to the newly elected Chairman. Article 38: Vacancies on the Executive Committee 1 A position will be considered vacant upon death, resignation, expulsion, permanent disability, if a member of the Executive Committee finds himself in a situation of incompatibility while in office or if a member of the Executive Committee other than the President of FECAFOOT does not participate in 4 (four) consecutive meetings to which he has been duly convened. 2.If a position or up to 50% of positions in the Executive Committee become vacant, the Executive Committee shall refill the vacant position(s) until the next ordinary 22 General Assembly, which elects the required number of replacements for the remaining duration of the term. 3.If more than 50% of the positions on the Executive Committee become vacant, the President of FECAFOOT shall convene an Extraordinary General Assembly to elect replacements for the remaining duration of the term. 4.The newly elected Member(s) shall be drawn from the same Electoral College as the Member(s) replaced. Article 39: Sessions 1. The Executive Committee shall meet in ordinary session every 2 (two) months and at least 6 (six) times per year at the invitation of the President of FECAFOOT, Chairman of the Executive Committee, in any case: a) before the start of the sports season; b) the sports mid-season; c) at the end of the sports season. 2. If half (1/2) of the members so request, the President shall convene a meeting within fifteen days of such request. If not, the members who made the request may themselves convene the meeting. 3. Members of the Executive Committee must submit the points they wish to be inserted into the agenda of the session 15 (fifteen) days in advance to the Secretary General. The agenda must get to them eight (08) days before the meeting. 4. Invitations to a regular session of the Executive Committee written in French and English and accompanied by the agenda shall be sent to all members 8 (eight) days before. 5. The Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary-General shall take part in the sessions of the Executive Committee in an advisory capacity. 6. Sessions of the Executive Committee are not public. The Chairman may invite personalities, because of their competence, to attend. Such personalities shall have no voting rights and may speak only with the consent of the Committee. 7. Minutes of the meeting of the Executive Committee shall be drawn up by the Secretary-General who shall send them to the members within 30 (thirty) days. Article 40: Powers of the Executive Committee The Executive Committee has the authority to: 23 1. decide any case not covered by the competence of the General Assembly or is not reserved for other bodies under the Law or these Statutes; 2. prepare and convene the Ordinary and Extraordinary General Assemblies of FECAFOOT in accordance with these Statutes; 3. appoint or dismiss the chairmen, vice-chairmen and members of standing and ad hoc committees, on the proposal of the President of FECAFOOT; 4. Propose chairmen, vice-chairmen, rapporteurs and members of judicial bodies to the FECAFOOT General Assembly on the initiative of the President of FECAFOOT.; 5. decide if need be to create ad hoc committees proposed by the President; 6. establish the specific regulations of ad hoc committees and standing committees proposed by the President of FECAFOOT; 7. adopt and amend the General Rules, Financial Regulations, Disciplinary Code, Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct of FECAFOOT and other enactments outside the remit of the General Assembly FECAFOOT; 8. appoint or dismiss the Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary-General on the reasoned proposal of the President of FECAFOOT. The Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary-General as of right attend the meetings of each committee; 9. propose to the General Assembly an audit firm for the independent verification of the accounts; 10. determine the sites and dates of FECAFOOT competitions and the number of participating teams before the start of competition; 11. recruit the coach and members of the technical and medical staff of the Men’s national teams on a proposal of the President of FECAFOOT; 12. create, organize and cancel official competitions at national level; 13. propose to the General Assembly any personality likely to be conferred the title of Honorary President, Honorary Vice President or Honorary Member FECAFOOT; 14. approve the organization chart, Status and Bylaws of FECAFOOT staff on the proposal of the Secretary General; 15. ensure that the Statutes is implemented and to adopt executive measures for their implementation; 16. temporarily revoke a member of an organ or propose the temporary suspension of a member of FECAFOOT until the next General Assembly; 17. recruit, appoint and dismiss senior staff as proposed by the President; 18. delegate tasks within its competence and have recourse to other bodies. Article 41: Decisions of the Executive Committee 1. The Executive Committee may validly deliberate with 2/3 (two-thirds) of its members in attendance at least. 24 2. The Executive Committee shall take its decisions by a majority (over 50%) of the members in attendance. In case of a tie, the Chairman shall have the casting vote. Voting by proxy or by correspondence is not allowed. 3. Minutes of decisions shall be drawn up in French and English. 4. Decisions of the Executive Committee take effect immediately after publication, unless it decides otherwise. They are not retroactive, unless they are favourable to their recipients. Article 42: Obligation of discretion and loyalty 1. Any member of the Executive Committee shall be bound by a duty of reserve, solidarity and confidentiality. Only the President of FECAFOOT or a person delegated by him may speak officially on behalf of FECAFOOT. 2. Any breach of the obligations mentioned above shall constitute a disciplinary offense punishable under the Statutes, Codes and Regulations of FECAFOOT. Article 43: Dismissal of a member of an organ 1.The General Assembly may dismiss a member of a body. The Executive Committee may insert the removal of a member of an organ into the agenda of a session of the General Assembly. It may also temporarily remove a member of a body, pending the holding of the next General Assembly. Any member of the Executive Committee shall propose such dismissal for the agenda of the Executive Committee or the General Assembly. 2.The proposal for dismissal shall be substantiated. It is addressed to members of FECAFOOT together with the agenda of the General Assembly. 3.The respondent member shall have the right to defend itself before the General Assembly. 4.The General Assembly or the Executive Committee shall validly take decisions only when the majority (over 50%) of delegates representing the members are present. The General Assembly or the Executive Committee shall decide by secret ballot. To be adopted, the decision requires a 2/3 (two thirds) majority of the votes validly cast. 5.The dismissed member of an organ, even if temporarily, shall resign immediately. 25 Section 4: PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERATION, CHAIRMAN OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Article 44: Responsibilities 1. The President statutorily represents FECAFOOT in all acts of civil life and sports, as well as in the courts. 2. He shall be responsible for: a) the implementation of the decisions of the General Assembly and the Executive Committee by the General Secretariat; b) monitoring the functioning of the organs of FECAFOOT for the latter to achieve the goals set by these Statutes; c) controlling the activities of the General Secretariat; d) relations between FECAFOOT and its members, between FECAFOOT and FIFA, CAF, UNIFFAC, CNOSC, political bodies and other organizations; e) the recruitment of the National Technical Director, the Assistant National Technical Directors; f) the recruitment of regional, divisional and sub-divisional advisers on the proposal of the National Technical Director; g) the hiring and firing of non-executive FECAFOOT staff on the proposal of the Secretary General; h) the opening of FECAFOOT accounts; i) the authorization of expenditure; j) monitoring FECAFOOT development projects. 3. Only the President may propose the appointment or dismissal of the SecretaryGeneral and the Deputy Secretary-General to the Executive Committee. 4. The President shall preside at all meetings of the General Assembly, the Executive Committee, Emergency Committee and the ad hoc meetings of committees of which he was appointed Chairman. 5. The President votes at meetings of the Executive Committee and, in case of a tie, he has a casting vote. 6. When the President is absent or incapacitated, his duties shall be performed by the First Vice-President who, for this purpose, shall receive delegation of authority in the areas determined by the President. In the absence of the First VicePresident, the duties of the President shall be exercised by the oldest among the Vice-Presidents. 7. The President of FECAFOOT must reside in Yaoundé for the duration of his term. He is responsible for ensuring the continuity of services of FECAFOOT 26 Article 45: Specific conditions for the eligibility of the President of FECAFOOT, Chairman of the Executive Committee 1. Any Cameroonian of either sex aged at least 40 (forty), meeting the general eligibility requirements set forth in these Statutes, and who is either a delegate to the FECAFOOT General Assembly or who has previously been sponsored by at least 8 (eight) delegates to the said Assembly may be candidate to the presidency of FECAFOOT. 2. The Outgoing President shall be allowed to stand as a candidate without sponsorship, subject to the conditions for eligibility provided in these Statutes. 3. Any candidate for the presidency of FECAFOOT must pay a deposit of 2,000,000 FCFA (two million) by certified cheque payable to FECAFOOT upon filing the application. The candidate who gets 20% of the votes shall be reimbursed. 4. Applicants shall submit their application files to the General Secretariat no later than 60 (sixty) days before the date of the elective General Assembly. 5. The General Secretariat shall inform members of the names of the candidates and publish them in national and international media at the latest 15 days before the date of the elective General Assembly. Article 46: Vacancy of the Presidency 1. The office of President shall be deemed vacant upon death, resignation, expulsion, permanent invalidity thereof, or if the said President finds himself in a situation of incompatibility or ineligibility in the course of his term or if the President does not participate in 6 (six) consecutive meetings of the Executive Committee. 2. In case of vacancy of the Presidency duly confirmed by 2/3 (two-thirds) of the members of the Executive Committee, the First Vice-President shall deputize until the next Annual General Assembly. 3. In case of unavailability or failure of the First Vice-President, the position shall be filled by the Second Vice-President. In case of unavailability or failure of the Second Vice-President, the position shall be filled by the oldest member of the Executive Committee. 4. In all cases, the Acting President must convene an extraordinary General Assembly for the election of the President of FECAFOOT and other members of the Executive Committee. The General Assembly shall be held within a maximum of 100 (one hundred) days after the declaration of vacancy. 5. Candidates for President must be members of the Executive Committee in the event of a vacancy. 27 6. The new President of FECAFOOT shall be elected by a one round, direct and secret simple majority vote for the remainder of the term. Article 47: Representation and signature 1. The Chairman of the Executive Committee represents FECAFOOT in all acts of civil life and sports, as well as before the courts. 2. He shall commit FECAFOOT by his sole signature. 3. He may appoint a Vice-chairman or any other member of the Executive Committee of his choice to accomplish a specific task or run a sphere of activity. SECTION 5: EMERGENCY COMMITTEE Article 48: Organization and Operation 1. The Emergency Committee is a restricted body of the Executive Committee made up of the President of FECAFOOT, First Vice President, Second Vice-President, the President of the Professional Football League of Cameroon and a woman, member of the Executive Committee, appointed if necessary, by the Executive Committee. 2. The Emergency Committee handles all matters requiring settlement between two sessions of the Executive Committee, except: a) the vacancy of the Presidency; b) hiring or dismissal of the Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary-General. 3. Sessions of the Emergency Committee shall be convened by the Chairman of the Executive Committee. If a summons in good time is not possible, decisions can be taken and transmitted using other means of communication. Such decisions take effect immediately. The Chairman shall immediately inform the Executive Committee of decisions taken by the Emergency Committee. 4. Any decision taken by the Emergency Committee shall be ratified by the Executive Committee at its next sitting. 5. The Emergency Committee may validly proceed only when at least 3 (three) members are in attendance. In all cases, decisions can only be taken by a majority of 3 (three) votes at a minimum, the Chairman having a casting vote in case of a tie. 6. If the President is unavailable, he shall be represented by the Senior Vice President. If the latter is also unavailable, he shall be represented by the second vice-president. 28 Section 6: STANDING COMMITTEES I-VARIOUS TYPES OF COMMISSIONS Article 49: Unique 1. The standing committees of FECAFOOT are: a) the Finance Committee; b) the Commission on national and international competitions; c) the Organising Committee of the Cup of Cameroon; d) the Central Commission of Referees; e) the Legal Affairs Commission; f) the Commission on Infrastructure and Equipment; g) the Sports Medicine Commission; h) the Player Status Commission; i) the Fair Play and Social Responsibility Commission; j) Marketing, Promotion and Media Commission; k) Safety Commission; l) the Animation and Supporters Commission. m) the Audit and Compliance Commission; n) the Committee for Women's Football o) the Commission on junior football. p) The Commission in charge of licensing clubs 2. The chairmen of the standing committees shall be members of the Executive Committee, with the exception of the President of the Audit and Compliance Commission who cannot be in any case. Members of the standing committees shall be appointed by the Executive Committee at the request of members of FECAFOOT or the President of FECAFOOT. Chairmen, vice- chairmen and members of standing committees are appointed for a term of 4 (four) years. However, the President of FECAFOOT may propose anyone with the necessary skills for these positions. II-POWERS OF STANDING COMMITTEES Article 50: General Provisions The committees’ role, with the exception of the Commission in charge of licensing clubs, shall be to advise and assist the Executive Committee in the performance of its 29 functions. Their main responsibilities, composition and functioning are set by these Statutes and/or in specific regulations. Article 51: Finance Committee The Finance Committee shall advise the Executive Committee on financial matters and asset management. It analyzes the regular budget, special budgets and programme budgets and FECAFOOT annual accounts prepared by the Secretary General, and submits them to the Executive Committee for approval. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 52: Committee on National and International Competitions The FECAFOOT Commission on National and International Competitions shall be responsible for the design and organization of national and international competitions. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 53: Organising Committee of the Cup of Cameroon The Organising Committee of the Cup of Cameroon shall be responsible for organizing the draw of the games of the Cup of Cameroon from the thirty-second (1/32nd) finals and preparations for the final of this competition in conjunction with the General Secretariat of FECAFOOT and the Ministry in charge of sports. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 54: Central Commission for Referees The Central Commission for Referees shall implement the Laws of the Game. It appoints the referees for competitions organized by FECAFOOT and the League of Professional Football of Cameroon, addresses refereeing issues within FECAFOOT in collaboration with the administration of FECAFOOT and shall run the instruction and training of referees. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 55: Legal Affairs Commission The Legal affairs Commission shall be dedicated to the analysis of all legal issues relating to football and the evolution of the Statutes and Regulations of FECAFOOT and its members. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 56: Committee on Infrastructure and Facilities 30 The Committee on Infrastructure and Facilities shall examine all matters relating to stadiums and playgrounds and other sports facilities and equipment in conjunction with the State and regional and local authorities. It shall comprise a Chairman, a ViceChairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 57: Committee on Sports Medicine The Commission on Sports Medicine shall handle all medical issues relating to football. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 58: Player Status Committee 1. The Player Status Committee establishes and monitors the enforcement of the settlement of transfers in accordance with the Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players of clubs affiliated with FECAFOOT. It shall determine the status of players at various FECAFOOT competitions. It shall comprise a Chairman, a ViceChairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. 2. Disputes relating to the status of players, involving the association, its members, players, match officials and players' agents shall be handled by the National Disputes Resolution Chamber. Article 59: Committee for Fair Play and Social Responsibility 3. The Committee for Fair Play and Social Responsibility shall deal with issues of fair play; it shall promote the principle of fair play and the fight against discrimination in football in Cameroon. It shall also address issues of social responsibility and environmental protection and biodiversity within FECAFOOT and activities. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 60: Committee on Marketing, Promotion and Media The Committee on Marketing, Promotion and Media shall advise the Executive Committee in the preparation and execution of contracts between FECAFOOT and various marketing /promotion partners and develop various marketing and promotion strategies. It shall also deal with working conditions of the media at FECAFOOT events and collaboration with media groups. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 61: Safety Commission 1. The Safety Committee shall be responsible for: a) organizing the protection of persons and property during football matches; 31 b) ensuring compliance with the number of places available; c) prohibiting access to the stadium to all persons in possession of objects that can serve as projectiles, pyrotechnic articles such as lasers, fireworks, rockets or flares whose lighting, projection or explosion may be the cause of serious accidents; d) prohibiting the sale of beverages in packaging other than plastic or cardboard within the football playgrounds. e) verify the reliability of sports facilities. 2. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 62: Animation and supporter Committee 1. The Animation and Supporter Committee shall be responsible for organizing the animation and coaching of groups of supporters during all international matches and the final of the Cup of Cameroon in compliance with the rules of fair play and safety. 2. It shall also harmonize the activities of groups of supporters of clubs of the various national championships. 3. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 63: Audit and Compliance Commission 1. The Audit and Compliance Commission shall ensure compliance and reliability of the accounts and audit the annual accounts and annual consolidated financial statements as well as the reports of the external auditors. 2. The Audit and Compliance Commission shall advise and assist the Executive Committee in its consideration of matters of finance and compliance of the Federation; it shall establish the organizational regulations of the federation and ensure their observance. 3. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 64: Committee for Women's Football The Committee for Women's Football shall advise and assist the Executive Committee in all matters relating to women's football. It shall comprise a Chairman, a ViceChairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 65: Committee on Youth Football 32 The Committee on Youth Football shall advise and assist the Executive Committee in all matters relating to youth football. It shall comprise a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman a rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Article 66 : Governing Body responsible for the licensing of clubs 1. The Executive Committee of FECAFOOT shall draw up regulations on the clubs licensing system, to enable them taking part in FECAFOOT and CAF competitions, in compliance with the minimum standard licensing system of clubs established by CAF, consistent with the FIFA Rules of Procedure for granting licenses to clubs. 2. FECAFOOT shall grant licenses to clubs, following the system of clubs licensing and the minimum standards thereof, established by CAF. 3. Licensing of clubs shall include in particular : a) the minimum criteria to be fulfilled by clubs to be authorized to take part in FECAFOOT and CAF competitions; b) the procedure for granting licenses ; c) the minimum requirements to be applied by the licensor. IV-TERM OF OFFICE AND OPERATION OF STANDING COMMITTEES Article 66: Term of office Chairmen, Vice-Chairmen, rapporteurs and members of standing committees shall be appointed for a term of 4 (four) years by the Executive Committee on the proposal of the President of FECAFOOT. Article 67: Operation The operating rules of each standing committee shall be determined by a special regulation. V-AD HOC COMMITTEES Article 68: Single 1. The Executive Committee may, if necessary, set up ad hoc committees, on the proposal of the President of FECAFOOT, for a specific purpose and for a limited period. The President of FECAFOOT shall designate a chairman, a vice-chairman, a rapporteur and the members of the ad hoc committee. 33 The functions of the ad hoc committee shall be defined by specific rules established by the Executive Committee. An ad hoc committee reports directly to the Executive Committee. 2. The FECAFOOT President, Chairman of the Executive Committee, may chair an ad hoc committee. Section 7: JUDICIAL BODIES Article 69: General Provisions 1. The judicial bodies of FECAFOOT are: a) the Federal Homologation and Disciplinary Commission of FECAFOOT; b) the National Disputes Resolution Chamber; c) the Ethics Commission; d) the Appeals Board; e) the Electoral Commission; f) the Electoral Appeals Commission; g) the Tribunal of Arbitration for Football (TAF). 2. The powers and functions of the judicial bodies above shall be governed by the Statutes, codes and regulations of FECAFOOT. 3. The National Disputes Resolution Chamber, the Ethics Commission and the Tribunal of Arbitration for Football (TAF) shall each be governed by specific enactments. 4. The duties of members of the judicial bodies shall be incompatible with those of a member of another FECAFOOT body. 5. The judicial powers of certain committees shall be reserved. 6. The composition of judicial bodies shall be determined by these Statutes, Codes and Regulations of FECAFOOT, as well as specific enactments. 7. The judicial bodies shall be so constituted to ensure that their members in all have the knowledge and skills required by their function as well as specific experience to enable them perform their duties properly. Chairmen, vice-Chairmen and rapporteurs of the judicial bodies must be qualified lawyers. Their term of office shall be 4 (four) years. Members may be re-elected and dismissed at any time, knowing that their election or revocation can only be made by the General Assembly. 8. Chairmen, Vice-Chairmen, rapporteurs and other members of the judicial bodies shall be elected by the General Assembly and should not be members of another FECAFOOT body. 34 9. a) If the Chairman, Vice-Chairman or a member of a judicial bodies permanently ceases to perform his duties during his mandate, he shall be automatically replaced by the Vice-Chairman. If the latter ceases to perform his duties during his mandate, he shall be automatically replaced by the oldest member of the body. In this case the first substitute in the election order shall integrate the body as a member. b) If the rapporteur of a judicial body permanently ceases to perform his duties during his mandate, he shall be automatically replaced by the substitute rapporteur. c) If a member of a judicial body permanently ceases to perform his duties during his mandate, he shall be automatically replaced by the first substitute in the election order. Article 70: Federal Homologation and Discipline Commission 1. The Federal Approval and Discipline Commission may prescribe the sanctions described under these Statutes and the FECAFOOT Disciplinary Code against members, officials, players and match agents and players' agents. 2. The competence of the General Assembly to impose the suspension and expulsion of members is restricted, and the jurisdiction of the Executive Committee to declare the provisional suspension of a member or temporary removal of a member of a body such as provided for under Articles 15, 16 and 45 hereof is restricted. 3. The Federal Homologation and Discipline Commission shall consist of 1 (one) Chairman, 1 (one) Vice-Chairman, 1 (one) Rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Its Chairman, vice-Chairman, rapporteur and at least one member must have legal training. The members of the Commission must be well reputed. 4. The General Assembly shall elect two members and one substitute rapporteur at the same time as it elects the Chairman, vice-Chairman, rapporteur and members of the Commission 5. The organization and functioning of the Commission shall be governed by the FECAFOOT Disciplinary Code. Article 72: National Disputes Resolution Chamber The organization, composition and functioning of the National Disputes Resolution Chamber shall be governed by a specific enactment. Article 73: Ethics Commission 35 1. The Ethics Commission may take sanctions stipulated in these Statutes, the Code of Ethics and Disciplinary Code of FECAFOOT against officials, players, match organizing agents and players' agents. 2. The organization, composition and functioning of the Ethics Commission shall be governed by the FECAFOOT Code of Ethics. Article 74: Appeals Board 1. The Appeals Board shall hear appeals against adverse decisions with the exception of those taken by the TAF, the Electoral Commission, the Electoral Appeals Commission and the National Disputes Resolution Chamber. 2. The Appeals Board shall consist of 1 (one ) Chairman, 1 (one) vice-Chairman, 1 (one) Rapporteur and 4 (four) members. Its chairman, vice-chairman, rapporteur and at least one member must have legal training. The members of the Commission must be well reputed. 3. The General Assembly shall elect two members and one substitute rapporteur at the same time as it elects the Chairman, vice-Chairman, rapporteur and members of the Commission. 4. The organization, composition and functioning of the Board shall be governed by a special enactment. Article 75: Electoral Commission and Electoral Appeals Commission The organization, composition and functioning of the Electoral Commission and the Electoral Appeals Commission shall be defined by the Electoral Code of FECAFOOT. Article 76 : FECAFOOT arbitration tribunal(TAF) 1. An arbitration tribunal (TAF) shall be created within FECAFOOT, in charge of settling internal disputes between FECAFOOT, its members, players, leaders, officials of matches and players’ and match agents who do not fall under the jurisdiction of its other bodies. 2. The Executive Committee establishes specific regulations on the organization, composition, jurisdiction and rules of procedure of this arbitration body. Article 77: Disciplinary Actions Disciplinary measures shall be as follows: 36 1. Against natural and corporate persons: a) warning; b) reprimand; c) fine; d) price refund. 2. Against natural persons: a) warning; b) expulsion; c) match suspension; d) prohibition from changing rooms and/or bench; e) prohibition from the stadium; f) ban on performing any football-related activity; g) general interest job. 3. Against corporate persons: a) ban on registering new players; b) obligation to play behind closed doors; c) obligation to play on neutral ground; d) ban on playing in a particular stadium; e) cancellation of the results of matches; f) expulsion from a competition; g) forfeiture; h) deduction of points; i) loss of match by penalty; j) demotion into one or more lower categories; k) a replay. Article 78: Sporting Disputes, arbitration and mediation 1. Sporting disputes between sports associations, trades associations and licensees and FECAFOOT shall be resolved according to rules specific to FECAFOOT, in accordance with Section 44, paragraph 1 of Law No 2011/018 of 15 July 2011 on the organization and promotion of sport and physical activity. 2. After exhausting all internal remedies within the Federation and pursuant to Section 58 paragraph 2 of Law No. 2011/018 of 15 July 2011 on the organization and promotion of physical activity and sports, decisions of the Appeals Board, the National Disputes Resolution Chamber and the Electoral Appeals Commission may be appealed ultimately at the national level either at the Chamber of Conciliation 37 and Arbitration set up at the Cameroon National Olympic and Sports Committee if the parties so agree, or before the TAF. 3. Decisions of the Tribunal of Arbitration for Football and the Chamber of Conciliation and Arbitration shall be appealed before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) based in Lausanne, Switzerland. Article 79: Prohibition of referral to the ordinary courts and option of exclusive jurisdiction 1. FECAFOOT, its members, players, officials, players’ and match agents shall not engage any proceedings before the ordinary courts unless it is specifically stated in the Statutes and regulations of FIFA. Any dispute shall be submitted to the jurisdiction of the FECAFOOT, CAF or FIFA. 2. FECAFOOT shall have jurisdiction over domestic national disputes arising between individual members. FIFA shall have jurisdiction over international disputes arising between parties from different federations and/or confederations. Article 80 : Court of Arbitration for Sport 1. In accordance with applicable provisions of the FIFA Statutes in force, any appeal against a decision of last resort at the national level will be heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) based in Lausanne, Switzerland. CAS shall not deal with appeals relating to violations of the Laws of the Game or a suspension lower than or equal to four matches or three months. 2. FECAFOOT must ensure compliance by its members, players, officials, match and players’ agents of all final decisions taken by a FIFA organ, an organ of CAF, TAF, or the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) based in Lausanne, Switzerland. Section 7: GENERAL SECRETARIAT Article 81: General Provisions Under the authority of the President of FECAFOOT, the General Secretariat headed by a Secretary General, shall perform all FECAFOOT administrative tasks. The staff of the Secretariat shall respect the Statutes, Codes, Regulations Decisions and Directives of FECAFOOT and fulfil the tasks allotted to him. Article 82: Secretary-General 1. The Secretary-General directs the administration of FECAFOOT. 38 2. He is hired on the basis of a private law contract and must have requisite professional qualifications. 3. He shall be responsible for: a) implementing decisions of the General Assembly and the Executive Committee in accordance with the instructions of the President of FECAFOOT; b) participating in the General Assembly and the sessions of the Executive Committee, Emergency Committee, the standing and ad hoc committees and judicial bodies in an advisory capacity; c) organizing the sessions of the General Assembly, the Executive Committee, the various committees and judicial bodies in conjunction with their chairmen; d) drawing up the minutes of the General Assembly, the Executive Committee and the Emergency Committee; e) the management and proper keeping of FECAFOOT accounts; f) managing all FECAFOOT correspondence; g) relationships with members, the judicial bodies, commissions, FIFA, CAF, UNIFFAC, CNOSC and other federations; h) organizing the General Secretariat; i) proposing the hiring and firing of non-management staff of the General Secretariat to the President of FECAFOOT; j) the administration and management of national competitions, excepting those organized by specialized leagues and the Professional Football League of Cameroon; k) participating in the administration of international competitions in collaboration with relevant bodies; l) publishing decisions taken by the General Assembly, the Executive Committee, and judicial bodies. 4. A Deputy Secretary-General, recruited on a private-law contract basis, shall assist the Secretary-General, from whom he shall receive all necessary delegations of authority. 5. The Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary-General can neither be delegates to the General Assembly nor members of any FECAFOOT body. CHAPTER V: FINANCE Article 83: Fiscal Year 1. FECAFOOT's fiscal year covers one year. It begins on January 1 and ends on December 31 of each year. 2. FECAFOOT revenue and expenditure must be balanced in the year. A provision should be made to support the achievement of the main tasks of FECAFOOT. 39 3. The President of FECAFOOT shall present to the General Assembly the consolidated financial statements of FECAFOOT as at December 31 of each year. 4. The independent audit firm submits its report to the General Assembly. 5. The General Assembly shall decide on whether or not to grant its discharge. Article 84: Resources FECAFOOT Resources derive among others from: 1) Membership dues; 2) Revenue from the marketing of rights over which FECAFOOT is co-holder or holder; 3) Fines imposed by the relevant authorities; 4) All kinds of revenue from competitions, tests, events and contests; 5) Income from property; 6) Proceeds from the sale of publications, badges, emblems and from advertising; 7) Donations within the limits permitted by law; 8) Damages 9) Revenue from organizations using the calendar of competitions for advertising purposes; 10) Grants from the State or regional and local authorities; 11) Quotas and subsidies from FIFA and CAF; 12) Grants and other revenue consistent with the objectives pursued by FECAFOOT as well as sharing bonuses from FIFA and CAF organized competitions; 13) Any other resources authorized by law. Article 85: Expenditure The Payer liquidates and pays: 1) Expenditures under the regular budget, special budgets and programme budgets; 2) Other expenses approved by the General Assembly and those of the Executive Committee within the limits of its powers and possibilities; 3) Other expenses consistent with the objectives of FECAFOOT. Article 86: FECAFOOT Fund 1. Funds and securities are deposited in bank accounts in the name of FECAFOOT. 2. The withdrawal of funds or securities is made regardless of the amount against two signatures: that of the President of FECAFOOT and the Secretary General’s. In 40 case of the duly noted absence of the Secretary General, the Deputy SecretaryGeneral and the President of FECAFOOT shall sign. In the absence of the President of FECAFOOT, the first Vice-President, with the express authorization of the Executive Committee, shall sign jointly with the Secretary General. 3. FECAFOOT assets shall be considered to be public assets. In case of embezzlement, managers must be prosecuted by the competent ordinary courts, in departure from the rule of exclusive jurisdiction under Article 79 hereof. Article 87: Grants FECAFOOT shall be accountable to the State and to regional and local decentralized authorities for funds received there from, which remain public funds subject to the regime of Article 92 of Law No. 2011/018 of 15 July 2011 on the organization and promotion of sport and physical activity. Article 88: Accounting Principles FECAFOOT Accounts shall be kept in accordance with the OHADA Accounting Plan. Article 89: Prosecution Any member of an organ, an ad hoc, standing or specialized commission of the Federation responsible for any financial transaction in FECAFOOT who is indicted for embezzlement will be immediately suspended as a precautionary measure by the Executive Committee until the next General Assembly, without prejudice to criminal prosecution which could be on the initiative of the said Committee. Article 90: Independent audit body The independent audit body or audit firm appointed by the General Assembly shall audit the accounts approved by the Finance Committee in accordance with the OHADA accounting principles and present a report to the General Assembly. It shall be appointed for a term of 2 (two) years renewable. Article 91: Annual Dues 1. Annual dues are due on January 31 of each year. Dues from new members for the current year must be paid within thirty (30) days after the end of the General Assembly at which they were admitted. 41 2. The amount of the annual due shall be determined by the General Assembly every year, on the proposal of the Executive Committee. It shall be the same for all members. 3. Members who do not pay their dues on time shall be automatically suspended. The suspension shall be lifted automatically lifted upon payment. Article 92: Compensation FECAFOOT may offset its claims against its members with their assets. Therefore, FECAFOOT may automatically deduct the part to which it is due. Article 93: Percentage FECAFOOT may request a share of revenue collected during any match from its members. CHAPTER VI: COMPETITIONS AND DUES FROM COMPETITIONS AND EVENTS Article 94: Competitions 1. FECAFOOT shall organize and coordinate all official competitions holding in its area of jurisdiction. 2. FECAFOOT may delegate authority to a league to organize competitions. Article 95: Licenses The system of management of licenses for the participation of clubs in competitions shall be determined by the General Regulations of FECAFOOT. Article 96: CAF Club Licensing 1. The Cameroon Football Federation will conduct the licensing of clubs in accordance with the licensing system setting minimum requirements adopted by CAF for the granting of the license. 2. The said club license system shall include in particular: a) the minimum criteria to be met by clubs to be allowed to participate in CAF competitions; b) the procedure for granting the license to clubs; c) the minimum requirements to be applied by the licensors. 42 Article 97: Fees 1. Income from all fees generated by competitions and other events within their respective areas of expertise shall belong to FECAFOOT and its members. 2. Notable among these fees are property rights of all kinds, registration, reproduction and broadcasting rights, multimedia dues, marketing and promoting rights, intellectual property rights and on other distinctive signs. 3. The Executive Committee shall determine the type of operation and the scope of the exploitation of these rights, and prescribe special provisions to this effect. It may reserve all the operation for FECAFOOT, share this operation with third parties, or delegate it entirely to them. Article 98: Authorization FECAFOOT and its members shall solely be competent to authorize the broadcasting of matches and events within their area of competence on audiovisual media including, without restriction or consideration of place, content, date, technique or rights. CHAPTER VII: INTERNATIONAL MATCHES AND COMPETITIONS Article 99 : Organization of international matches and competitions The responsibility of organizing international matches and competitions involving national teams, leagues and/or club teams shall rest solely with FIFA. No match or competition shall take place without prior approval of the Executive Committee of FIFA. In addition, approval of the confederation concerned may be requested in accordance with FIFA regulations. 1. FECAFOOT is required to comply with the international match calendar set by FIFA. Article 100: Contacts Any FECAFOOT sporting event with a non-member association of FIFA or with provisional members of confederations or their clubs shall require the approval of FIFA. Article 101: Authorization 43 1. Any club, league or any other group of clubs affiliated to FECAFOOT may only join another association or compete in the territory of the latter with the permission of FECAFOOT, of the other association, of the confederation(s) concerned and of FIFA. 2. Any club, league or any other group of FECAFOOT affiliated clubs may not participate in competitions on the territory of another association without the authorization of FECAFOOT, of the other federation(s) without the permission of FIFA and the confederation(s) concerned pursuant to FIFA international matches Rules. Article 102: Management of national teams 1. The responsibility of managing national teams shall rest with FECAFOOT. 2. FECAFOOT may benefit from the contribution of the State in fulfilling this task. The terms and conditions for benefiting from such contribution shall be subject to an agreement. CHAPTER VIII: MISCELLANEOUS, TRANSITIONAL AND FINAL PROVISIONS Article 103: Incompatibilities 1. The following functions are incompatible with those of President, SecretaryGeneral and Deputy Secretary-General of FECAFOOT: a) a member of the executive organ or owner of a football club or of training facility with a currently valid license; b) football player holding a currently valid license; 2. The functions of member of an executive organ of another national sports federation, because of the likelihood of conflicts of interest, shall be incompatible with those of the President, Executive Committee member, Secretary-General or Deputy Secretary-General of FECAFOOT or of the executive of one of its leagues. 3. Members of the Emergency Committee may not simultaneously be members of the executive of a league. 4. The member struck with incompatibility has a period of thirty (30) days from his election or appointment, to resign from his previous position subject to revocation by the Executive Committee. Article 104: Specialized Committees 44 Existing specialized committees shall continue to operate until the setting up of corresponding specialized leagues. They are not members of the General Assembly of FECAFOOT. Article 105: Regional Leagues Regional leagues presently existing shall automatically be transformed into associations, pursuant to the Law on the organization and promotion of sport and physical activity. These leagues may participate in the next elections. Article 106: Continuity of service General assemblies of associations and their executive bodies shall continue to perform their duties until completion of the electoral process. Article 107: Unforeseen cases and cases of force majeure The Executive Committee of FECAFOOT shall make a first and final decision in all cases not provided for in these Statutes or in cases of force majeure, without prejudice to a contrary decision of the General Assembly of FECAFOOT. Article 108: Dissolution 1. The decision on the dissolution of FECAFOOT shall require a two thirds (2/3) majority of the votes validly cast at a General Assembly specially convened for this purpose. 2. Upon dissolution of FECAFOOT, its assets shall be made available to national sports organizations that will continue to run it until the constitution of a new national football association. Article 109: Pre-eminence of the Statutes In case of conflict between the provisions of these Statutes, regulation or code, or those of the Articles of an affiliated league, the provisions of these Statutes shall prevail, and those of the Regulation or Code, as well as the Statutes of the league shall be deemed unwritten. Article 110 : Annex The Annex hereunder shall be part of these Statutes. Article 111 Entry into force 45 These Statutes were adopted by the General Assembly of FECAFOOT in its session of 23 August 2014. They shall take effect immediately. THE SECRETARY OF THE SITTING, THE PRESIDENT, Ebénézer Durand MOULOKE Pr. Joseph OWONA SCHEDULE TO FECAFOOT STATUTES 1. FECAFOOT members as described in Article 11 hereof shall have a period of 2 (two) years from the ratification of the FECAFOOT Statutes to comply with the said Statutes. Members who shall not have complied with the provisions of the FECAFOOT Statutes within the 2 (two) years mentioned above shall automatically lose their membership of FECAFOOT. 2. The Standardization Committee may, as necessary, reduce the time limits for elections in FECAFOOT and its Leagues. 46