Countdown to GFF elective congress

The much anticipated elective congress of the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) is slated for 29th June 2013.

While the controversies that surround the build-up to the adoptive congress for the new GFF constitution are still fresh in our minds, we would like to urge all stakeholders ahead of the nomination process, which starts today, to ensure that the whole process mirrors the spirit of the game itself - fair play.

The camaraderie that characterized the GFF over the years must not be allowed to disappear into thin air during the forthcoming congress.

However, this does not in any way mean that those who were at the helm of affairs in the GFA are the only competent persons able to serve as football administrators in the country.

Ideally, any member elected into the executive should adhere to term limits as stipulated in the new GFF constitution.

For the presidency, it seems Seedy MB Kinteh, former incumbent could have his name on the ballot, if he accepts calls for him to come back.

Several credible sources within the regional and club official circles have told The Point that they will send Mr Kinteh’s name as their nominee for the June 29 election.

Whether successful or not, the records are clearly written on the wall for posterity.

Now that the congress is slated for 29th June 2013, club representatives should be extra vigilant in voting in a new executive into office, since what the country needs is a group of seasoned and dedicated football administrators to run the new GFF.

In recent years, football has come to be showcased as a sporting event which is quite effective in uniting people and selling the image of the country.

We, therefore, call for the election of competent persons, who will be committed to the development of Gambian youths through sport.

Whereas some may be elected into office, due to their powers to canvass votes, there is no doubt others must go.

What is important is for those to come on board who can work to take Gambian sports to higher heights.

“A school without football is in danger of deteriorating into a medieval study hall.”

Vince Lombardi