By: Saidu Jalloh
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) Ordinary Congress, held on April 5, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown, ended in confusion and was abruptly cancelled following the unexpected departure of SLFA President, Thomas Daddy Brima. His exit triggered tension and brought the proceedings to a halt, leaving delegates and stakeholders in disarray.
The congress had been convened to discuss key administrative matters and elect committee members. However, the situation took an unforeseen turn when President Brima urged his supporters to avoid violence, emphasizing that his presence was not meant to provoke conflict but to lead a peaceful delegation.
“I did not come here for war,” Brima stated. “Football is recreation—why should we fight over it? It is not a do-or-die affair.” He reiterated his commitment to peace, stressing that he has always advocated for unity since assuming leadership of the SLFA.
Meanwhile, Babadi Kamara, Chairman of Bo Rangers Football Club and a presidential aspirant, condemned the cancellation of the congress. He argued that the president could not unilaterally call off the session due to what he called an “isolated incident.” Kamara pointed out that the police were present to maintain security and should have dealt with any disturbances accordingly.
Kamara also urged President Brima not to use security concerns as an excuse to avoid the congress, stating that all eleven executive committee members were present and ready to proceed. He further called for a peaceful atmosphere, saying, “I stand for peace, and I want the congress to be conducted in a peaceful, transparent, and accountable manner.”
In response, SLFA Vice President 1, Harrold Nat-Johnson, informed delegates that the congress could not proceed in the president’s absence. He referenced Article 37.3 of the SLFA statute, which grants the president sole authority to convene the congress. Nat-Johnson also noted that FIFA had been notified of the situation.
SLFA Vice President 2, Alie Badara Tarrawally, explained that President Brima had cited security concerns for his departure but declined to provide further details, stating that he could not speak on Brima’s behalf.
However, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Sylvester Koroma, contradicted Brima’s claims of insecurity. Koroma assured that the venue was safe and well-guarded, with a significant police presence deployed. He pointed out that the large groups of supporters many of whom were unaccounted for due to the lack of an official delegate list contributed to the tension.
Abdul Gbala, Chairman of the Tonkolili District Football Association, expressed frustration over the handling of the congress. He stated that all necessary parties were present and ready, only to be informed that the president had left without notice. “We felt disrespected,” he said.
In conclusion, Vice President 2, Alie Badara Tarrawally, indicated that discussions are ongoing regarding how to reconvene the congress. He emphasized that, according to SLFA regulations, a congress cannot be held in the president’s absence unless he is incapacitated or deceased.