Freetown, Sierra Leone — June 13, 2025: As anticipation builds ahead of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) Elective Congress, football stakeholders have voiced concerns over the emergence of the so-called “Third Force”, labeling it a political maneuver driven by personal ambition rather than genuine reform.
During a recent discussion, Bei Santigie T. Kamara, a football insider, condemned the movement, describing it as a “circus” orchestrated by failed football opportunists and power-hungry figures.
Political Ambitions Overshadowing Football Progress
Kamara accused members of the Third Force of betrayal and opportunism, stating that many were once trusted and empowered by SLFA President Thomas Daddy Brima, only to turn against him in pursuit of political dominance.
He further alleged that the coalition was not motivated by football development but rather by a quest for personal gain, with some key figures historically linked to disciplinary controversies and instability within the sport.
Concerns Over Tribal and Political Divisions
According to Kamara, one prominent figure within the Third Force has strategically played into tribal and political narratives to create divisions within the football community. He warned that this tactic could turn the SLFA election into a partisan battle, detracting from the core mission of improving the game in Sierra Leone.
Lack of Vision and Concrete Achievements
Criticism was also directed at a senior member of the movement, who Kamara claimed had spent nearly two decades in football administration without delivering any tangible progress.
He argued that no functional football club, infrastructure development, or strategic vision had been realized under this individual’s tenure, questioning his leadership credentials.
Political Endorsements and Financial Incentives
Reports also suggest that efforts to rally ex-footballers and political figures have largely failed, with senior voices within the APC party distancing themselves from the movement.
Kamara pointed to claims that financial incentives—including NLe50,000 loyalty payments—were allegedly being offered to stakeholders to secure support.
Stakeholders Watching Closely
The SLFA Elective Congress is expected to be closely monitored by football stakeholders, with many expressing skepticism over the Third Force’s intentions.
Kamara concluded that Sierra Leone’s football deserves leadership built on vision and service, rather than self-enrichment and political maneuvering.
As the congress approaches, stakeholders remain vigilant, ensuring that football development remains the primary focus, rather than political theatrics and personal ambition.
On Thursday, June 5, a coalition of stakeholders officially launched the “Third Force” at the SLFA Academy in Kingtom — a movement they say is born out of frustration but driven by hope.
Its members said the Third Force is a corrective initiative to rescue Sierra Leonean football from what they described as “unethical governance, political interference, and systemic manipulation”.
They claimed they are committed to “Reclaim and Reform”, restoring autonomy to football governance, protecting referees and clubs from external influence, and building a merit-based system where talent and honesty prevail over connections and corruption.