Babadi Kamara’s 2025 Victory Remains Intact
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed an appeal challenging the outcome of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) Presidential Election held on 2 August 2025, leaving Babadi Kamara’s election as President undisturbed.
The appeal was filed by Aminata Bangura, SLIFA FC and Musa Mahmood in a case registered as CAS 2025/A/11738 against the SLFA.
In its ruling, the CAS Panel concluded that the issues raised by the appellants did not materially affect the integrity or outcome of the election to justify its annulment.
The Panel also upheld the authority of the SLFA Executive Committee to ensure the continuity of the Elective Congress in the absence of the President and First Vice-President. It ruled that the Executive Committee had sufficient legal grounds under Article 82 of the SLFA Constitution and Article 2 of the Standing Orders of Congress to allow the Second Vice-President to preside over the proceedings.
The court further confirmed that the Standing Orders of Congress, which came into force in 2012, remained applicable following the adoption of the SLFA Constitution in 2019.
On allegations relating to voting procedures, ballot papers and intimidation of delegates, the Panel found that the appellants had not provided sufficient evidence to establish that the alleged irregularities materially affected the election result.
Babadi Kamara won the presidential election with 43 votes, against 11 votes secured by Aminata Bangura.
The CAS Award also ordered the appellants to jointly and severally bear the arbitration costs and contribute CHF 6,000 towards the SLFA’s legal fees and other expenses.
In a statement, the SLFA described the ruling as an important affirmation of its constitutional position, institutional authority and commitment to continuity in football governance.
The Association expressed appreciation to its legal representatives, particularly Mr Africanus Sorie Sesay and Mr Siman Allie Mans-Conteh, for their professional representation during the proceedings.
The SLFA said it would remain focused on strengthening its governance structures and promoting football development in Sierra Leone under the leadership of President Babadi Kamara.
