By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
In a landmark ruling delivered on January 24, 2025, the National County Sports Meet (NCSM) Appeal Board dismissed a protest filed by the Bassa Sports Association (BSA) against Bomi County. The protest alleged that Bomi County had violated Rule 13.1.3 of the tournament’s regulations by fielding four 1st Division players during the competition, which the BSA argued was a breach of the prescribed limit of three 1st Division players and three 2nd Division players per team.
After a thorough review, the Appeal Board found no evidence of wrongdoing on the part of Bomi County. The Board noted that the substitutions made for injured players were duly approved by the organizing committee and adhered to the tournament’s eligibility requirements. In its ruling, the Appeal Board stated that the allegations by BSA were “not tenable” and deemed the protest “void ab initio,” effectively clearing Bomi County of any violations.
The decision provides relief for the Bomi County Sports Association, which had faced uncertainty during the protest period. Abdul Kanneh, Chair of the Bomi County Sports Association, welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the importance of fair play and transparency in the tournament.
The National County Sports Meet, Liberia’s most prestigious inter-county competition, continues to showcase the nation’s best talents while promoting unity and sportsmanship. This ruling underscores the organizers’ commitment to upholding the integrity of the games and ensuring compliance with established rules.
The case was presided over by the NCSM Appeal Board, chaired by Cllr. Meo D. Beyan, with members Atty. Sagife F. Kanfarla-Co, Royston Dehila, Abraham K. Suor, and J. Kiah Wilson. Appearances for the appellant included Mr. Gabriel Montgomery, Cllr. Charlene Brumskine, and others, while the appellee was represented by Mr. Abdul Kanneh.
