By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a dramatic turn of events ahead of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) Elective Congress, Aminata Bangura has been officially reinstated as a presidential candidate following a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The decision, issued by the President of the CAS Appeals Arbitration Division, grants Bangura a stay of execution, effectively nullifying her previous disqualification and allowing her to compete in the upcoming election. Bangura will now appear on the ballot alongside fellow contenders Babadi Kamara and Umar Bah when the highly anticipated vote takes place on Saturday, August 2, 2025.
Bangura filed her appeal with CAS on July 24, 2025, challenging the legitimacy of her exclusion from the presidential race. Within just over a week, the CAS responded in her favor, a development widely seen as a victory for fairness, transparency, and the rule of law in Sierra Leonean football governance.
“I am grateful that justice has prevailed,” Bangura said in a brief statement following the ruling. “This election is not just about me. It’s about the future of football in Sierra Leone and the right of every eligible candidate to participate in a free and fair process.”
The CAS decision has injected renewed energy and anticipation into the SLFA presidential race. Bangura, who has built a reputation as a strong advocate for grassroots football development and transparency, is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the contest.
Her supporters have long argued that she represents a new vision for the SLFA—one that prioritizes youth development, gender inclusion, and administrative reform. Bangura’s reinstatement now offers her the platform to take that message directly to the 57 officially vetted delegates who will cast their votes at the Congress.
According to the SLFA, the approved delegates include representatives from regional and district football associations, clubs, and other recognized interest groups within the country’s football ecosystem. These stakeholders will elect the SLFA President and other executive members who will serve a four-year term.
The August 2 Congress is seen as a pivotal moment for Sierra Leonean football. With Bangura back in the race, many observers believe the election has become more competitive, and perhaps more reflective of the diversity of voices within the football community.
Football analysts say her reinstatement could also influence the tone and policy direction of the SLFA, should she succeed in her bid. “Aminata Bangura’s inclusion brings balance to the race,” said one local football commentator. “It ensures that all sides of the football spectrum—men’s, women’s, youth—have a seat at the table.”
Bangura has not yet detailed her full campaign agenda, but insiders close to her camp say she is focused on institutional reform, funding transparency, and better support for women’s football—a segment she believes has long been marginalized.
As the countdown to election day continues, all eyes will be on Bangura and how her return shapes the final days of campaigning. One thing is clear: with the CAS ruling now behind her, she is back in the game—determined, focused, and ready to lead.
