Wednesday February 22, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) – Two opposing elections were held on Wednesday in Mogadishu to elect the President of the Somali Football Federation (SFF), resulting in the election of two different presidents for the association.
The SFF's former vice president, Ali Shiine, was elected at the Elite Hotel, while Hassan Yabarow Wiish was elected at the Jazeera Hotel in a separate election in the capital.
Hassan Yabarow Wiish was elected at the Jazeera Hotel
Both groups claim to have the legitimacy of the football association, and government officials are reportedly influencing the conflicting electionsToday's move may complicate the situation of the football association, which was already in trouble.
The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has already issued a warning to the conflicting parties of the association, and FIFA may take action that could result in Somalia's suspension from international competitions.
The SFF is responsible for developing and promoting football and organizes various leagues, tournaments, and national teams, including the Somali Premier League, the Somalia Cup, and the Somalia national football team.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of Internal Security suspended the Somali Football Federation (SFF) leadership election after the Ministry of Youth and Sports raised concerns that SFF members were planning to hold two competing "parallel" elections.
Former SFF vice president, Ali Shiine, was elected at the Elite Hotel