MONROVIA – The Liberia Sports Lovers Association (LSLA), a sports advocacy group, is set to approach the Legislature’s Committees on Youth and Sports to investigate the alleged mishandling of a US$319,000 fund at the Liberia Football Association (LFA).
According to the LSLA, the funds, provided by FIFA under President Mustapha Raji, were meant for LFA-affiliated clubs. However, the group alleges that the money was instead directed to CESAF, a construction firm, without proper consultation. This action reportedly prompted the resignation of the then Secretary-General, Mr. Isaac Montgomery.
In a statement released on April 17, 2024, in Monrovia, the LSLA stressed the need for transparency in sports administration. They called on the Legislature to initiate an inquiry into the matter.
The LSLA remarked, “The concerns we are raising are vital for the welfare of our Liberian footballers. We urge President Raji’s removal due to potential governance issues that might compromise FIFA’s support to Liberia.”
The group also expressed reservations about President Boakai’s leadership at the LFA, with calls for his resignation two years before the upcoming LFA elections.
A recent audit by KFA Consults highlighted discrepancies in the reported cost of the LFA headquarters. While President Raji quoted US$1.5 million, the audit indicated US$1.819 million, factoring in the FIFA loan.
The US$319,045.28 FIFA loan, designated for pandemic-related losses, was reportedly utilized for the headquarters’ construction due to global price surges in construction materials. The loan, repayable from January 2023 to January 2026, will be settled through FIFA contributions.
Issues emerged with the loan’s management. Despite FIFA’s approval, the funds were not immediately accessible. As a result, LFA secured an overdraft from Guaranty Trust (GT) Bank, which was insufficient compared to the FIFA-approved amount. LFA bridged this gap using its own resources.
The LSLA pointed out discrepancies in the 2022 and 2023 financial statements, citing International Accounting Standards (IAS 23) on borrowing costs.
Moreover, the group raised concerns about the overdraft arrangement, referencing FIFA Forward regulations against negative balances. President Raji has been under scrutiny for discrepancies in headquarters’ cost estimates and retention calculations.
The LSLA further critiqued President Raji’s leadership style, suggesting personal interests might overshadow national priorities. They warned that his continued leadership could impact FIFA and CAF’s support for Liberian football.
Lastly, the group questioned the recent appointment of Lone Star’s national soccer squad coach, alleging undue influence from President Raji.
