In a recent gathering organized to bid farewell ahead of two recent Leone Stats friendly matches, Madam Augusta James-Teima, the Minister of Sports, addressed the controversies surrounding the appointment of the Head Coach and technical team for the Leone Stars.

The recent appointment of Amidu Karim has attracted wide criticism after it was revealed that a former Leone Stars captain, Mohamed Kallon was first considered for the role.

In a statement, Kallon expressed his initial joy, recalling how the SLFA recognized his leadership potential. “They saw a leader in me,” Kallon said. However, he acknowledged the differences in terms and conditions between himself and the association.

In response, the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) President, Thomas Daddy Brima confirmed his initial desire to appoint Mohamed Kallon as the national team’s coach but highlighted several ethical issues surrounding Kallon that need resolution.

Brima said these issues include a four-match ban from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and an incident involving an attack on female referees and officials, which is under review by both CAF and FIFA.

While expressing her trust in the team’s expertise and potential, she clarified her position, emphasizing that her concerns were not against the appointment of the technical team per se, but rather focused on the transparency and due diligence of the selection process.

She conveyed assurance in the team’s abilities and experience, emphasizing the importance of achieving victory for the nation.

“All the people want is victory. Even our hardworking and dynamic President, H.E. Julius Maada Bio, loves winning. So please do all you can to give us that. When Leone Stars wins, the entire country wins…” she said.