Libya's Al Saadi Gadaffi has joined the Caf presidential raceHas he got a serious chance of toppling Issa Hayatou?
On 22 May, Al Saadi Gadaffi declared his intention to run for the presidency of the Confederation of African Football (Caf)
He claims to have the support of 30 countries but has refused to name them.
Gadaffi is involved in all facets of Libyan football - he is vice-president of the FA, plays club football for Al Ittihad and the national team.
But Libya have not played in the African Nations Cup since 1982 and are not in the elite cadre of the continent's footballing nations.
Can his bid for African football's top job be taken seriously?
Have Your Say, using the form on the right.
Many of us are so busy knowing who should not be Caf president that we forget that the likes of Al Saadi Gadaffi could be the catalyst to get the Issa Hayatous of this world to take the running of Caf seriously, or prompt other candidates to join the race. If Gadaffi does not have the pedigree as many would claim, Hayatou must be forced to do better or leave. It looks like the next Caf president would learn to be accountable. We may have to thank Gadaffi for that, whether he wins or not.
Ikeddy Isiguzo, Lagos, Nigeria I personally think its the funniest joke I have ever heard. The mere fact of him thinking of standing is a disgrace to the integrity of African football.
Nana, London
As much as I want to dismiss this guy, we all know that things in Africa work in mysterious ways. His daddy's money can and has worked miracles.
Justin Okemwa, NJ, USA
I think some people in Africa strive so hard to portray our soccer in a satirical light. Otherwise, what do you say of someone whose pedigree in football is only in Libya? Gadaffi can invest his wealth in the nation's soccer side and that will make a better statement.
Oluwashina Okeleji, Nigeria
Al Saadi doesnt know what he wants. Deep down in his heart he believes that money can do everything. He is totally wrong. His candidacy is not something worth debating.
Octavian Barnabas, Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania
African football needs fresh blood to revitalise it. Al Saadi Gadafi like any true and sport loving African has the right to contest the Caf presidency. Personally, Al Saadi Gadaffi has a good profile to be the next president.
Prince Ovwagbedia, Amsterdam,The Netherlands
Leadership is vitally important in a growing organisation like Caf. Currently, we are at a curious threshhold where good leadership and great business skills can tip the scale in our favour. But the reverse is also true. Has Gadaffi earned the right to be entrusted with such leadership? I think not.
Daniel, USA
Being the son of a president and playing football has made him a name in this popular sport. He just wants to say he competed for the Caf presidency. Some other candidate will win.
Patrick, Cameroon
How on earth can Gadaffi think he can become Caf president? It may be time for a change but the experience and personality needed is not something that Gadaffi has. If he is ever voted president then it is right to say African football is regressing.
Daniel Asongwe, Nashville /USA
Sincerely, I think that equating Al Saadi Gadaffi with the Caf presidency is like insisting that the man's somewhat renowned philanthropy translates to sound administration at continental football level. Be that as it may, I also think that Africans should advise Al Saadi that he stands to put the continent to great disrepute if he insists on furthering his cause. But I doubt if he would be humble enough to do this simple thing, considering he has already dropped 30 "supporters" without disclosing their identities. For a man whose nation is hardly known in the world, except for being under the benevolence of a maximum ruler, I am afraid the bid looks unserious.
Afolabi Gambari, Lagos, Nigeria
Issa Hayatou must go. But is Gaddafi the answer? No! Caf needs more experienced and objective leaders.
Leo Tarr, Chicago, USA
I believe Al Saadi does not have the experience needed for the post. Issa Hayatou is doing a great job and I prefer that Africans give him another chance.
Jek Tchato, Maryland, USA
I believe if Caf needs a challenge it must be from persons whose countries are major players in African football. Libya at the moment has nothing to offer. He needs to know how far African football has grown. It's not all about money in football. I think there are better options if there must be change in Caf's leadership
Casianus Shyntum, UK (Cameroonian)
The best person should get the job. Africans are tired of corruption and mismanagement. Caf deserves a good and honest leader with business skills that will work for developing African football and take it to the next level. Gadaffi doesn't fit the profile.
Zach, Morocco
The guy is a joke. His candidacy is not something worth debating.
Ayo Osibodu, The Netherlands
MMIX
Email this to a friend 
Printable version 