Among other things, President Babadi Kamara of the Sierra Leone Football Association has vowed to work in the best interest of the country and to partner with all significant stakeholders to create a better future. Under his leadership, he says there would be no financial indiscipline.
In an exclusive interview with AYV News Live, he emphasised his commitment to development across the board. Here is a breakdown of pivotal answers during his first public appearnce since the elective congress Interview!!!
On revamping the secretariat of the SLFA, Babadi confirmed that the FA’s secretariat would undergo a significant transformation. “When you travel to the secretariats of other member associations and return home to see the current state of affairs, you have to ask yourself, ‘What have we been doing as a nation?’ The present condition of the FA’s compound is extremely poor, raising many questions about the previous leadership.
However, we need to move forward and explore ways to improve. I, along with my executive team, will work to give the FA a face that reflects the dignity of Sierra Leoneans. I believe we will collaborate with stakeholders to achieve this.”
On Election Day, reported allegations of malpractice. When asked about alleged malpractices surrounding the elections, he addressed the issue succinctly. “Elections worldwide face challenges, so the SLFA is no exception. However, one good thing is that we all went through the same process in terms of nominations. Speaking about voting was done openly in front of everyone.
On playing the First and Second Division Leagues – He was confident about the possibility of playing both the National Senior League and Division One football simultaneously. “Some nations are entering a new season, while Sierra Leone still plays; that is not something we can settle for anymore. We have to play football in line with international best practices and in line with the International transfer market.
On Academies Development – He emphasised the importance of developing football academies across Sierra Leone and stated he will personally look into this area. He also encouraged other passionate Sierra Leoneans to contribute to football development through academies.
Issues on Women’s League Upgrading – One of the biggest gaps between male and female leagues is financial equity. And I am very sure that when they give seed money to teams before this time, the Premier League teams get more than what they gave to female teams and for me, the process of playing football is the same.
On Accountability and Financial Discipline When Asked – Financial discipline is my strength of competence when it comes to money. I did not come to become SLFA’s president for a living – when you go as a worker making a living from football, then there is going to be a serious challenge.
My main objective for becoming the president of the SLFA is not for personal gain, but to serve my nation. Therefore, regarding the issue of integrity in financial matters, you can judge me by my words: there will be no financial malpractices during my time in office.
