By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) Ordinary Congress, which was supposed to pave the way for this year’s Elective Congress, was abruptly postponed after SLFA president, Thomas Daddy Brima, left the venue without informing delegates. The unexpected turn of events has left many attendees frustrated and concerned about the future of football governance in Sierra Leone.
The Congress was scheduled to take place at the Bintumani Conference Center, where over 35 of the 57 accredited delegates had already registered when they were informed that the meeting could not proceed. SLFA vice president 1, Harold Nat-Johnson, announced that the absence of President Brima made the continuation of the Congress legally impossible. According to Article 37.3 of the SLFA Statute, only the president has the authority to convene a Congress; and his departure from the event rendered the session void.
Vice president 2, Alie Badara Tarawallie, confirmed that efforts to contact president Brima had been unsuccessful. Despite attempts to reach him, there was no response. Tarawallie further indicated that the SLFA Statute allows the president to reconvene the meeting within 24 hours if circumstances require; but as of now, no such reconvening has taken place.
Reports suggest that President Brima left the event citing security concerns. However, the Sierra Leone Police quickly dismissed such claims, confirming that sufficient security measures had been in place to ensure the safety of everyone present at the venue. This contradiction has only fueled the anger and confusion surrounding the situation.
Several delegates, including Kailahun District FA Chairman, Foday Anthony, and Mohamed Sesay of Luawa FC, voiced their frustration with the sudden postponement. “We are here, ready to discuss important matters and move football governance forward, and now we are left in the dark,” said Anthony. “This kind of behavior is unacceptable. We demand answers and adherence to the due process that governs the SLFA.”
Some delegates also warned of potential legal action if the situation is not addressed swiftly. “We cannot allow this situation to fester,” said Mohamed Sesay. “The integrity of the SLFA and its leadership is at stake, and we will take appropriate steps if our concerns are not taken seriously.”
The postponement of the Congress was particularly disappointing because it was intended to finalize critical matters for the upcoming Elective Congress. The Congress was set to adopt revised statutes, approve key committees, and make arrangements for the Elective Congress that will elect the next set of leaders for the SLFA. The failure to hold the meeting has now delayed the important processes and created uncertainty about the timing and structure of the upcoming elections.
In response to the growing concerns, the SLFA Executive Committee promised to communicate a new date for the Congress soon. However, the lack of clear communication and transparency has raised doubts among delegates about the willingness of the current leadership to follow due process.
As the dust settles, many in the football community are watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. The unexpected postponement of the Ordinary Congress has only added to the growing frustration with the SLFA’s leadership; and many are calling for swift action to resolve the impasse and ensure the smooth functioning of the association. Until then, the future of Sierra Leonean football remains uncertain, with many hoping that the upcoming Elective Congress will bring much-needed change and stability to the sport in the country.
