SLFA Faces Fresh Turmoil as Statute Reform Rejected by Delegates
By Mohamed Kamara
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has once again plunged into administrative uncertainty after delegates on Saturday, April 26, rejected the adoption of proposed revised statutes during its ordinary congress held at the Catco Hotel on Wilkinson Road.
This latest development signals a major setback for a football institution long marred by leadership struggles and internal divisions, particularly around election periods. From past confrontations involving Isha Johansen and Mohamed Kallon, to more recent tensions between Babadi Kamara and Thomas Daddy Brima, SLFA’s presidential races have often been riddled with personal interests taking precedence over national football development.
Despite the fact that only delegates are constitutionally eligible to vote in elections — and all candidates, including incumbents, are entitled to contest — conflicts continue to overshadow the process. Many observers argue that a lack of adherence to institutional discipline and a disregard for national interest are eroding the integrity of the game.
“It’s a recurring cycle,” noted one football analyst. “When personalities become bigger than the game, the sport suffers.”
A similar impasse in the past saw FIFA intervention and temporary sanctions during the tenure of former President Isha Johansen, only resolved after a lengthy judicial process. The difference this time is the apparent neutrality of the current Sports Minister, Augusta James Teima, who has not been publicly linked to either side in the ongoing leadership standoff — a contrast to former Minister Paul Kamara’s openly declared support for Isha Johansen, which later turned sour.
With the failure to adopt the revised statutes, SLFA now faces delays in implementing critical reforms. The ongoing friction raises concerns about the long-term stability of the association and its ability to govern effectively.
Amid this political gridlock, hopes rest on the technical side of the game remaining unaffected. National Coach Mohamed Kallon, who himself was once embroiled in SLFA politics, has expressed a renewed focus on rebuilding the national team and aiming for success on the pitch — a vision many believe could unify a divided football community.
Whether SLFA can rise above internal rifts and return its focus to national football development remains to be see
