By Alfred Kamanda
Babadi Kamara’s candidacy for the presidency of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) is surrounded by significant controversy that raises serious questions about his qualifications for leadership. Notably, an incident involving physical assault earlier this year highlights the po extential weaknesses and ethical lapses within Kamara’s team, which could undermine his ability to lead the SLFA effectively.
In April 2025, Kamara’s official driver was implicated in a physical assault against David Turner, an incident that placed Kamara’s leadership accountability in question. According to Article 23 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, the physical and mental integrity of individuals must be protected, which is fundamental to maintaining a safe and respectful environment within football. Moreover, Article 25 explicitly prohibits the abuse of one’s position, which raises concerns about the culture of accountability surrounding Kamara’s team. The assault is particularly troubling, as it not only breaches ethical conduct but also reflects poorly on Kamara’s judgment and oversight of his close associates.
Article 15 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code further emphasizes the seriousness of violent conduct and the importance of safeguarding the dignity of individuals. The gravity of this incident cannot be overlooked, and it poses a fundamental challenge to Kamara’s suitability for the top position in Sierra Leone’s football governance.
While Kamara has publicly issued an apology concerning the incident, many critics argue that mere words are insufficient. A true leader must demonstrate a commitment to ethical behavior and safety by taking decisive action in response to misconduct. Had Kamara suspended his driver or taken more significant steps to distance himself from the assault, it might have reassured the public of his commitment to upholding ethical standards. Instead, his failure to do so raises doubts about his capacity to manage personnel effectively and maintain order within the organization.
Furthermore, Article 8 of the SLFA Ethics Code emphasizes the importance of protection from harassment and threats, reinforcing the necessity for a leader who prioritizes the safety and dignity of all individuals involved in the sport. The violent incident involving Kamara’s driver not only violates this code but also signals a troubling acceptance of misconduct within his team that could extend to his leadership approach.
In light of these serious ethical violations, some school of thoughts hold the view allowing Kamara to contest for the presidency of SLFA could be the biggest blunder in football.