The Malian Football Federation gave its support to AS Monaco player Mohamed Camara, accused of homophobia during a Ligue 1 match on Sunday, in a press release published on Wednesday.
“The Malian Football Federation supports Mohamed Camara in the exercise of his freedom of expression and its corollary, (that) of not expressing oneself,” she said.
“Players are citizens like any other whose fundamental rights must be protected in all circumstances,” she said.
Mohamed Camara has already received the support of Malian personalities and many compatriots on social networks, in the name of respect for personal and religious convictions.
During the last day of the French Championship, the midfielder had hidden the logo against homophobia flocked on his jersey and worn by all the players, coaches and referees, as part of a campaign to fight against discrimination piloted by the Professional Football League (LFP).
French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera denounced “unacceptable behavior” and demanded “the strongest sanctions” against the player and his club.
In Mali, of an estimated population of more than 20 million, 95% are Muslim, according to the US State Department’s 2022 report on global religious freedom.
The country is attached to religious and traditional values which do not tolerate the practice of homosexuality, even if no criminal sanctions are in force.