By Forum staff writer
The Sierra Leone Football Association has terminated the tenure of Mohamed Kallon as head coach of the senior national team following revelations that he never signed a formal contract despite earlier public assurances.
Kallon, a former Sierra Leone international, was officially appointed on 12 February 2025 and unveiled on 25 February 2025. At the time, the association announced that he had agreed to a three year deal expected to run until 2027. The announcement was made under the leadership of then SLFA President Thomas Daddy Brima and was widely welcomed by football fans across the country.
However, a recent report by the SLFA Transition Committee has raised serious concerns about the legitimacy of that arrangement. According to the findings, Kallon did not sign any legally binding contract with the national team, even months after his official unveiling and assumption of duties.
The report further disclosed that Kallon reportedly declined several invitations to meet with the Minister of Sports, Augusta James Teima, who represents the government as the principal financier of the national team. The meetings were intended to formalize his contractual agreement and ensure proper administrative procedures were followed.
Speaking on Truth Media, the Chairman of the Transition Committee, Dr Isaac Massaquoi, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that it is highly irregular for a national team coach to operate without a formal contract. He stated that the Minister had expressed deep concern over the matter, pointing out that Kallon was actively managing the team without any signed agreement in place.
The situation has been described as an anomaly in professional football administration, raising questions about governance and accountability within the country’s football leadership. Observers say such lapses could expose the association to legal and financial risks, while also undermining confidence in the management of the national team.
Despite serving in the role for nearly a year, Kallon remained without a formal agreement until his dismissal. Reports indicate that multiple efforts were made by the Ministry of Sports to regularize his status, but these attempts did not yield the desired outcome.
In its termination statement, the SLFA said the decision to part ways with Kallon was taken in the best interests of the association and the development of football in Sierra Leone. The statement emphasized the need for a change in leadership to ensure proper structure and professionalism within the national team setup.
The development has sparked widespread debate among football stakeholders, with many calling for greater transparency and adherence to standard administrative procedures moving forward. As the Leone Stars continue their international engagements, attention now shifts to who will take over the reins and restore stability within the team.
