By Sallieu S. Kanu
The Ethics Committee of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has barred incumbent President Mr. Thomas Daddy Brima from contesting the upcoming elective congress scheduled for 2 August 2025. The decision followed an investigation into allegations of forgery and falsification involving multiple passports bearing conflicting dates of birth.
Mr. Brima, who had submitted his integrity documents and affirmed their authenticity, was petitioned by the Kono District Football Association on two counts: misappropriation and document falsification. While the Committee found no conclusive evidence of financial misappropriation, it expressed concern over discrepancies in his official records. Passports submitted by the respondent showed birthdates of both 26th September 1974 and 26th September 1977, whereas his integrity form indicated 26th February 1974.
Further complicating matters, police verification revealed Mr. Brima had not appeared in person for his mandatory clearance, contradicting his own testimony. A letter from Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio, Chief Immigration Officer, confirmed Brima had submitted a birth certificate to justify amendments in official records—but the certificate reflected a date of birth inconsistent with previous passports.
Citing Article 15 of the SLFA Code of Ethics, the Committee ruled that Mr. Brima failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for these discrepancies and, therefore, rendered him ineligible to participate in the forthcoming election.
The SLFA now looks ahead to its August congress with a narrowed field of candidates, as it aims to uphold integrity and transparency in football governance.
Parties who are aggrieved by the decision of the Ethics Committee can appeal to the High Court. Only Babadi Kamara and Umaru Bah have been cleared to run for the SLFA presidency.