The Confederation of African Football has warned journalists against behaviours that go against their professional ethics in their coverage of the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
In a statement released on their website, CAF is unhappy with the behaviour of some journalists at the tournament.
Some journalists were caught on camera abusing their national teams while others attempted physically abusing their national coaches and players.
In condemning these acts, CAF has reminded journalists on how to conduct themselves and to remain professional in their conducts.
Below is the full statement:
CAF has noted the escalating unbecoming and unprofessional behaviour of some “media practitioners” in working spaces at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023
Today, CAF met with Local Organising Committee (“COCAN”) and Police to discuss the situation and find workable solutions. CAF has engaged a number of Organisations represenating Journalists and raised the serious concerns on the behaviour of some “journalists” in media tribunes, media centres and mixed zones.
While we understand that we are all Football fans and are passionate about our National Teams, Journalists are expected to observe professional standards.
Fans must not be in the Media Tribune – there are plenty of seats at the Stadium for this.
Please note the following:
- Going forward any media practictioner who is involved in wild celebrations and abuses other media colleagues will be immediately removed by Security and his/her Accreditation will be withdrawn.
- Any media representative who is involved in a fight in media areas or physical scuffle will have his/her Accreditation withdrawn.
- Any journalist (Non-Rights Holder) who films at in the Media Tribune will be removed and his/her Accreditation withdrawn.
- Any media practictioner who uses vulgar in media areas either against Coaches, Players or his/her peers will have the Accreditation withdrawn.
- Any journalists who is live streaming in the Mixed Zone will have his/her Accreditation withdrawn.
- Use of Drones is strictly prohibited.
- Media cannot film inside the stadium (Only media centre, press conference room).
CAF | Communication Department