Africa-Press – Gambia. Concerns over governance at the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) have resurfaced, with Madi Jobarteh of the Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice highlighting long-standing issues within the body.
Allegations of weak governance, opaque decision-making process, and poor accountability have dogged the federation for years.
The latest controversy centers on a reported D14 million expenditure on the construction of a “mini stadium” in Nyakoi, Upper River Region. Observers note that the GFF has provided general assurances rather than detailed documentation on procurement, budgeting, and expenditure.
On Tuesday, GFF President Lamin Kaba Bajo addressed the matter during an appearance on Coffee Time with Peter Gomez. Analysts say the session raised more questions than it resolved. Bajo reportedly criticized calls for transparency and highlighted development achievements under his tenure, but did not release verifiable financial records. Experts emphasize that while development outcomes are important, they do not replace the need for due process, financial integrity, and institutional accountability.
Observers drew parallels with past controversies at FIFA, football’s global governing body. During the tenures of former presidents João Havelange and Sepp Blatter, FIFA faced multiple financial and ethical scandals. In 2011, FIFA paid two million Swiss francs to Michel Platini, then UEFA president, for advisory services allegedly rendered to Blatter between 1998 and 2002. Criminal proceedings were opened against Blatter in 2015, though both men were acquitted in 2022. Additionally, FIFA’s Ethics Committee banned Blatter from football activities for six years and Platini for four, while several officials faced US indictments for racketeering, bribery, and money laundering. Despite these controversies, Blatter’s tenure included significant development of football in Asia and Africa.
In the Gambian context, experts stress that the focus is on governance rather than achievements. Bajo’s claim that no GFF member has raised complaints is considered insufficient, as members may lack independence or leverage to challenge the executive. Public accountability extends beyond internal dissent, requiring proactive disclosure of financial and administrative decisions.
Jobarteh has recommended the establishment of an independent Ethics Panel, including non-GFF members, to review the federation’s affairs. He also urges the GFF leadership to hold a press conference and release all documents related to bidding, procurement, payments, and budgets. “If the president is confident in GFF’s integrity, full disclosure would reinforce public trust,” he said.
He further called on the Ministry of Youth and Sports to take decisive action, including suspending the executive if necessary, even at the risk of temporary CAF or FIFA sanctions. “The Ministry of Youth and Sports must act swiftly. Gambian football deserves governance that is transparent, accountable, and fit for purpose,” Jobarteh added.
The GFF, a non-profit entity responsible for national football, exists to serve the public interest. Experts say that when accountability principles are breached, intervention is warranted to safeguard the integrity of Gambian football.
