FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — 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 victory intact.

In a press release dated Monday, 2 November 2026, the SLFA confirmed that the CAS Panel had dismissed the challenge brought by Aminata Bangura, SLIFA FC and Musa Mahmood against the outcome of the presidential election.

According to the Association, the CAS Panel concluded that the issues raised by the appellants did not materially affect the integrity or outcome of the election, either individually or cumulatively, to justify its annulment.

The ruling means that the election result, which saw Babadi Kamara secure 43 votes against 11 votes obtained by Aminata Bangura, remains undisturbed.

Executive Committee authority upheld

In another significant aspect of the ruling, CAS reportedly affirmed the authority of the SLFA Executive Committee to ensure the continuation of the elective congress despite the absence of the President and First Vice-President.

The Panel relied on Article 82 of the SLFA Constitution and Article 2 of the Standing Orders of Congress, holding that the Executive Committee had the necessary legal authority to allow the congress to proceed under the chairmanship of the Second Vice-President.

The ruling also confirmed that the Standing Orders of Congress, in force since 2012, continue to apply following the adoption of the SLFA Constitution in 2019. The Constitution recognises the Standing Orders as supplementary rules governing congress proceedings.

The decision represents a significant legal development for the country’s football governing body, particularly in relation to its electoral procedures and constitutional authority.

SLFA reacts

Reacting to the outcome, the SLFA described the decision as an important affirmation of its constitutional position, institutional authority and commitment to maintaining continuity in football governance.

The Association also reiterated its commitment to strengthening governance structures, improving electoral procedures and upholding transparency, accountability and democratic participation in accordance with its statutes and applicable football regulations.

The SLFA further acknowledged its legal representatives, particularly Africanus Sorie Sesay, Brima Koroma and Siman Allie Mans-Conteh, for their work throughout the proceedings.

What next

With the legal challenge dismissed, Babadi Kamara continues as SLFA President, with the Association now expected to focus on its mandate to govern, promote and develop football in Sierra Leone.

However, beyond the legal victory, the real test for the current administration will be its ability to translate institutional stability into meaningful football development, improved domestic competitions, stronger grassroots structures and greater confidence among football stakeholders.