Questions over the credibility of the upcoming Somali Football Federation (SFF) elections continue to grow following allegations surrounding the appointment of the electoral committee and the exclusion of several affiliated clubs from the federation’s recent Congress.
Although the election has yet to be held, stakeholders argue that confidence in the outcome will largely depend on whether the electoral process is administered by an independent and transparent committee.
Concerns emerged after SFF President Ali Abdi Mohamed reportedly introduced nominees for the electoral committee during the Congress without prior circulation of their names, qualifications or declarations of independence. At the same time, representatives from more than a dozen clubs said to be critical of the current administration were allegedly denied access to the meeting.
The claims have prompted calls for the federation to publish the Congress notice, agenda, attendance register, minutes, voting records and the qualifications of those appointed, as well as clarify the circumstances surrounding the exclusion of the clubs.
Under the SFF Electoral Code, the electoral process is expected to uphold the principles of independence, transparency and fairness. The regulations also require nominations for the electoral committee to be submitted at least 30 days before an elective Congress, with the final list circulated to members no later than 10 days before the meeting.
Football governance observers say adherence to these provisions is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the election and maintaining confidence among member associations.
Responding to concerns about the federation’s preparations, SFF President Ali Abdi Mohamed has consistently maintained that the federation is committed to conducting its affairs in accordance with its statutes and FIFA regulations, emphasizing that all decisions are intended to strengthen Somali football and preserve the integrity of the electoral process.
The latest developments revive memories of the federation’s disputed 2023 elections, which resulted in competing leadership claims before the matter was eventually determined by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Many within the football fraternity had hoped the experience would pave the way for more transparent governance.
Regional football body CECAFA, whose president attended the recent SFF Congress, together with CAF and FIFA, is now being urged by some stakeholders to closely monitor the electoral process. Observers say such oversight would help reinforce confidence without interfering in the federation’s autonomy.
As preparations for the elections continue, many within Somali football believe the focus should remain on ensuring that every eligible member has an equal opportunity to participate in a transparent, inclusive and credible process. Such an approach, they argue, would not only strengthen the legitimacy of the next leadership but also contribute to restoring confidence in the governance of the game.
