A significant development has occurred in Sierra Leonean football following the release on bail of SLFA President Thomas Daddy Brima, Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh, and Finance Manager Ibrahim Bah, who were arrested on corruption allegations.
Mr Brima and co meet bail conditions of 500 million old Leones each and two sorties each. Residing in the Western Area – The SLFA congress is expected to go ahead as planned on Saturday.
The trio was taken into custody by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Thursday, causing a stir in the nation’s football community just days before the highly anticipated SLFA congress.
Their release, confirmed by ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala at a press conference, ensures that they will attend the congress scheduled for Saturday in Freetown. The arrests sparked controversy, prompting the Union of Premier League Clubs to dramatically withdraw from the Sierra Leone Premier League in protest.
This situation has drawn comparisons to past incidents, particularly the legal troubles of former SLFA President Isha Johansen, which ultimately resulted in Sierra Leone’s suspension by FIFA in 2018.
As the congress approaches, all eyes will be on the SLFA leadership. Will they be able to restore stability and prevent external sanctions, or is Sierra Leonean football facing yet another crisis? For now, the football community waits in anticipation for the next chapter in this ongoing saga.
