By: Elizabeth A Kaine
In Sierra Leone, where the echoes of a devastating civil war still resonate, a troubling societal dynamic has emerged: the celebration of criminals juxtaposed with the castigation of our protégés. This phenomenon sheds light on the intricate relationship between our cultural narratives, historical experiences, and contemporary values, raising critical questions about the kind of society we aspire to build.
The recent revelations surrounding the embezzlement of over $720,000 by Thomas Daddy Brima, the President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), force us to confront a disturbing question: why do we celebrate our criminals and castigate our proteges? This question digs deep into the cultural and institutional fabric of our society, revealing a troubling dynamic that allows corruption to flourish while stifling the genuine potential of our emerging leaders.
Embezzlement of such a staggering amount is not just a failure of ethics; it is a betrayal of trust. As the head of an institution that should promote sportsmanship, community, and national pride, Brima’s actions undermine the very foundation of what he was elected to uphold. Instead of utilizing funds to develop the sport and nurture young talent, he has allegedly siphoned money into his own accounts, while the athletes and the sport itself suffer.
The Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) investigation should not be perceived merely as a “witch hunt” as suggested by Brima, but rather as a necessary intervention to safeguard the future of Sierra Leonean football. The ACC’s diligent work, which began months prior to the congress, demonstrates the importance of accountability in positions of power. Yet, despite evidence of wrongdoing, the public finds itself in a precarious position—facing the harsh reality that the very leaders we place our faith in to guide us can falter so deeply.
Adding to the irony is the societal tendency to celebrate figures like Brima, who, despite their corrupt practices, are often lauded for their public personas or past achievements. In contrast, the up-and-coming talent within our communities—the proteges, who aspire to bring glory to our nation through dedication and hard work—are often scrutinized and marginalized. Why do we allow ourselves to be enamored by the charisma of those who betray our trust, while we neglect the growth and potential of the next generation of leaders?
Every dollar that was embezzled could have gone towards facilities, training programs, and support for young athletes who are the future of our national sports. Instead, we witness a cycle where those in power amass wealth at the expense of the very people they are meant to inspire. This cycle is reinforced by a culture that allows impunity to thrive, celebrating success based on visibility rather than integrity.
As citizens, we must disrupt this narrative. We must begin to value integrity over charisma, accountability over acceptance, and mentorship over marginalization. It is only by shifting our recognition towards those who demonstrate ethical behavior, commitment to their cause, and genuine leadership that we can truly foster a culture of excellence.
Let us advocate for transparency and accountability, not just within the SLFA, but across all sectors. As we reflect on the actions of Thomas Daddy Brima, let us not only condemn the corruption but also recommit ourselves to supporting the rising stars in our communities. They are the true embodiment of what it means to lead, and they deserve our celebration— not the criminals who hide behind a façade of authority.
In conclusion, we must end the celebration of corruption and embrace a future that honors integrity. By doing so, we pave the way for a stronger foundation for our society—a society where our proteges can thrive, and our leaders can be held accountable for their actions. Only then will we see a true transformation in not just our sports, but in the very character of our nation.