Sierra Leone suspended by FIFA because of government interference News

Navigation: Home / News / News / Sierra Leone suspended by FIFA because of government interference

Sierra Leone suspended by FIFA because of government interference

By Daily Sports on October 6, 2018

Sierra Leone have been suspended ‘with immediate effect’ by FIFA following government interference in the organisation and administration of the nation’s football association.

FA President Isha Johansen and General Secretary Christopher Kamara were barred from attending the SLFA offices by the government-backed Anti-Corruption Commission in light of allegations of wrongdoing.

The suspension comes only a week before the Leone Stars are due to take on Ghana in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header, with the first leg scheduled for October 11 in Kumasi.

“The suspension will be lifted once the SLFA and its recognised leadership have confirmed to Fifa that the SLFA administration, premises, accounts and communication channels are under their control once again,” began the statement released by FIFA on Friday.

The Anti-Corruption Commission have accused both Johansen and Kamara to vacate their posts pending the results of an ongoing case against them following allegations of corruption, according to BBC Sport.

The suspension means that the SLFA has lost all membership rights, while the national team and the nation’s club teams are not entitled to take part in international or continental competitions until the suspension is lifted.

The Leone Stars currently sit third in AFCON qualifying Group F, having taken three points from their opening two matches.

They were defeated 1-0 by Ethiopia last month after defeating Kenya in their opener in June 2017.

•Adapted from a KweseESPN.com report. Photo shows Sierra Lone players

Source Daily Sports

Posted October 6, 2018