By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Thomas Daddy Brima, is facing intense scrutiny over allegations of misusing Confederation of African Football (CAF) funds. Brima admitted on AYV’s Wake Up Salone program to redirecting football development funds to cover expenses for government officials and parliamentarians who traveled to Guinea during the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The revelation has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about financial mismanagement and potential breaches of international regulations. According to FIFA’s Financial Governance regulations, development funds must be used strictly for football-related activities. Using such funds for non-football purposes, especially to support government officials, violates both FIFA and CAF policies.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an investigation into the SLFA’s financial dealings, with Brima reportedly under probe for the alleged misappropriation of over $720,000. Critics argue that using CAF funds to finance political or government-related travel undermines the integrity of football administration and sets a dangerous precedent.
“This is not just a breach of FIFA’s financial guidelines; it’s a betrayal of the purpose for which the funds were allocated,” a local football stakeholder told AYV. As the investigation continues, there are growing calls for transparency and accountability within the SLFA. Many within the football community believe that development funds must remain sacrosanct and solely dedicated to uplifting the sport, not for political favors or unofficial expenditures.
The controversy surrounding Brima’s actions has significant implications for the SLFA and Sierra Leone’s football community. If found guilty, the SLFA may face sanctions, suspension of funding, or disciplinary action from FIFA. The incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in football administration, ensuring that development funds are used for their intended purpose.
As the investigation unfolds, the SLFA and its leadership will be under intense scrutiny. The football community is eagerly awaiting the outcome, hoping that those responsible will be held accountable and that the sport will benefit from proper management of development funds. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and transparency in sports administration, and the need for leaders to prioritize the development of the sport over personal or political interests.
