"TP Mazembe President Moïse Katumbi is reportedly considering retirement after 27 years at the helm of the Lubumbashi club, to make way for younger leaders," according to a news item running repeatedly on a television channel broadcasting from Kolwezi in Lualaba Province.

According to some comments within the club circles in Kinshasa, it would not be wise at this time for the chairman to leave the club in inexperienced hands. It would be better for him to make arrangements to prepare for the succession to ensure Mazembe inherits leaders who will be able to take charge not only financially but also organizationally. To this end, it must be a matter of people who come to serve (invest) and not to be served. Otherwise, this team, which is a national pride, risks falling into ruins.

Moïse Katumbi, they explain, has the merit of having elevated this club to the zenith of the best on the continent. His track record and the organization speak volumes. The most long-standing club president in terms of longevity in the Congolese league, Katumbi still has much to contribute to Mazembe.

Boni Tsala