President of Sierra Leone Basketball Federation Responds to Allegations of Autocratic Leadership

President Ali Hijazi of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation has addressed allegations of autocratic leadership following the resignation of Cyril Morgan as Financial Secretary.

Morgan’s departure, which comes less than a year after the November 2023 elective congress, was prompted by his concerns over Hijazi’s management style.

Morgan accused Hijazi of making unilateral decisions without consulting the executive committee, including matters related to financial proposals and the appointment of national coaches. He argued that such actions violate the federation’s constitution, asserting, “The president has repeatedly made unilateral decisions without consulting the executive committee, which is contrary to the spirit and letter of our constitution.”

In his response, President Hijazi acknowledged Morgan’s resignation but refuted the claims of constitutional violations. Hijazi explained that the federation’s decisions are made through a streamlined administration involving only the President, Vice President, and Secretary-General, rather than a broader board. “We do not have board members and decisions are made through direct administration,” Hijazi stated. He also noted that the Financial Secretary does not have a role in choosing coaches.