Parliament Summons Leone Stars and Sports Officials Over Financial Mismanagement
The Sierra Leone Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has summoned key stakeholders in the nation’s sports sector, including the Leone Stars national football team, to address allegations of financial mismanagement spanning 2020 to 2024.
The hearing, scheduled for 2:00 p.m. today, will scrutinize the financial management and operational practices of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Ministry of Finance, Accountant General’s Department, and travel agencies involved in sports-related activities.
Among those summoned are the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, the current and former Executive Directors of the NSA, the Ambassador of Sports, and the Managing Directors of Star Travel Agency and Cinderella Travel & Tours. The technical team of the Leone Stars, including coaches and assistant coaches, must also attend.
The inquiry aims to probe payments, expenditures, and processes within the sports sector, including bonuses disbursed to players, records of competitions, and protocols for sports-related travel. All parties were required to submit relevant documents, such as financial records and travel procedures, by December 17.
In addition to financial scrutiny, the technical team must provide insight into player selection criteria, fitness assessments, training methods, and team integration strategies. The PAC has warned that failure to comply with these directives will result in consequences.
This investigation comes amid rising concerns over transparency and accountability in the management of funds allocated for sports in Sierra Leone.
The findings of today’s hearings are expected to shed light on the financial practices of key institutions and individuals, and could have far-reaching implications for sports governance in the country.