Under pressure, Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) President Thomas Daddy Brima abruptly left the venue of Saturday’s Ordinary Congress, citing security concerns and without formally notifying the congressional body.
His unexpected absence disrupted the congress, which was the final gathering of Sierra Leone football stakeholders ahead of the elective congress later this year. Article 37.3 of the SLFA Statute grants the president exclusive authority to convene Congress, making it impossible for the meeting to proceed in his absence.
As of press time, a new date for the congress had not been communicated to delegates, despite the SLFA statute mandating that a reconvened session must occur within 24 hours in the event of a postponement or force majeure.
According to Sierra Leonean football journalist Marie Esther Samura, the congress, initially scheduled for 2 p.m., did not commence until 9 p.m., when First Vice President Harold Nat-Johnson addressed approximately 35 of the 57 delegates present regarding the president’s absence.
The congress was expected to adopt the revised SLFA statute, approve various committees leading to the elective congress, and deliberate on other key matters.
A day prior to the congress, the Sierra Leone Anti-Corruption Commission arrested Mr. Brima and two other SLFA officials on allegations of misappropriating funds from the government, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and FIFA.
According to the Commission’s investigation, a total of $720,000 was allegedly transferred to Mr. Brima’s personal account between 2021 and 2024 by the SLFA Finance Officer. While the SLFA claimed the amount was a reimbursement to Mr. Brima for personal expenses made on behalf of youth national teams, the anti-graft agency questioned the authenticity of the supporting documents.
The SLFA President was released on bail on Friday, April 4, 2025 — a day before the congress.
Speaking to his supporters after his release, Mr. Brima said he welcomed the investigation and denied any wrongdoing.
He also highlighted his achievements since taking office four years ago, including Sierra Leone’s first qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations in 25 years.
Despite his claims, Brima continues to face mounting criticism — primarily from opponents accusing him of misusing SLFA funds for personal gain.
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