Sadibou Kamaso Explains Why He Declined GFF Committee Appointment for Somalia AFCON Qualifier
Former Gambia Football Federation presidential candidate Sadibou Kamaso has responded to reports that he declined an invitation to join a GFF committee responsible for preparations for The Gambia’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Somalia.
The match is scheduled to take place at the Independence Stadium on September 25, 2026, with preparations expected to involve several stakeholders working behind the scenes to ensure the fixture is successfully hosted.
Kamaso confirmed that he received an official appointment letter from the Secretary-General of the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) on September 10, inviting him to participate in the fundraising committee for the upcoming international fixture.
However, according to Kamaso, he decided not to accept the appointment after considering several factors surrounding the proposed role.
Kamaso Gives Reasons for Declining
Kamaso said the short notice was one of the reasons he was unable to commit to the assignment.
He also raised questions about the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the committee, saying these had not been provided. He further pointed to uncertainty surrounding the composition of the committee and the absence of a clearly defined fundraising target.
For Kamaso, these details were important in determining what would be expected from committee members and whether he would be in a position to contribute effectively.
He also cited a pre-arranged travel schedule, which he said added to the uncertainty over whether he could fulfil the responsibilities associated with the appointment.
Rather than accepting a role without having clarity over its expectations, Kamaso said these circumstances influenced his decision to decline the invitation.
A High-Profile Football Context
The development comes shortly after the GFF presidential election held in August 2026, in which Kamaso contested the presidency against Kemo Ceesay, who emerged victorious, and Col. Musa Jammeh.
The new GFF leadership now faces the task of organising preparations for the Somalia qualifier, including logistical, financial and match-day arrangements.
The upcoming fixture is particularly important for Gambian football, making the coordination of preparations a major focus for the federation and its partners.
Kamaso’s clarification also provides context to reports suggesting that he simply rejected an opportunity to assist the new GFF administration.
His account indicates that the decision was based on practical concerns surrounding the proposed appointment rather than a refusal to support the national team.
Focus Turns to September 25
With the Somalia match approaching, attention will now shift towards ensuring that preparations are completed successfully ahead of kick-off at the Independence Stadium.
For Gambian football supporters, the priority will ultimately be what happens on the pitch, as The Gambia looks to secure a positive result in the AFCON qualifying campaign.
Kamaso’s comments, meanwhile, add another layer to the ongoing developments surrounding the new GFF leadership and its efforts to bring different stakeholders together.
As preparations continue, further details about the match committees, fundraising plans and wider organisational arrangements could provide greater clarity on how the federation intends to deliver the fixture.
What do you make of Sadibou Kamaso’s explanation for declining the appointment? Share your views in the comments.
