YAOUNDE: Journalists and social media users are dismayed following the wearing of a press pass by a lady named Manuela Bekoume during a qualifier match between Cameroon and Zimbabwe. Bekoume, commonly referred to as a ‘model,’ was seen in the stands wearing a press badge even though she has no ties to the journalism industry.
According to Cameroon News Agency, images of her were later shared on social media, beginning with a post on the Facebook page of state media outlet CRTV. The post described her as ‘a fan of the Indomitable Lions who became famous through CRTV cameras… the young woman has an interest in football and photography.’
Critics and social media users are questioning how and why she was granted a press badge. Journalists are expressing frustration, as obtaining accreditation is typically a difficult process. Some are calling on the Cameroon Association of Sports Journalists and FECAFOOT, the bodies responsible for issuing press badges, to explain.