By Danesius Marteh,
FC Fassell President Cassell Anthony Kuoh has applied to the elections committee of the Liberia Football Association (LFA) to run for president.
Kuoh’s package, which includes police clearance, curriculum vitae, two passport-size photos, letters of application and nomination and US$1,000, was received by LFA deputy secretary-general Mohammed Sheriff on 14 April.
In a statement, Kuoh said his application marks the beginning of a new and important journey focused on reviving, reforming and repositioning Liberian football for sustainable growth and international competitiveness.
“My decision to contest is driven by a firm belief that our football can and must do better.
“Together, we can build a system grounded in transparency, fairness, development and opportunity for all.
“I call on all stakeholders to join me in this process as we work collectively to restore confidence in our football and unlock its full potential,” said Kuoh.
The Civil Law Court declared Kuoh’s rights to contest the elections on 9 April.
Judge Peter Gbeneweleh said section 43.1 of the Criminal Procedure Law of 1973 provides that “court of records within their respective jurisdiction shall have power to declare rights, statutes and other legal relations whether or not further relief is or to be claimed.
“No action or proceeding shall be opened to objection on the grounds that a declaratory judgment is prayed for. The declaration may be either affirmative or negative in form and effect; and such declarations shall have the force and effect of a final judgment. The power granted to the court under this section is discretionary.”
Gbeneweleh said Kuoh is a member of the LFA by being Fassell president and former LFA vice president.
He, however, declined to address the constitutionality of the 2018 LFA approved statutes, which is before the Supreme Court.
Gbeneweleh ordered the clerk of court to lift the permanent injunction and instructed the LFA to proceed with the electoral process.
The LFA has announced that the elections will be held in Paynesville on 15 May.
According to a release signed by elections committee chairman Meo Debbah Beyan on 13 April, applications runs from 13-17 April at 5:00PM.
Cllr. Beyan added that vetting and publication of official candidates will run from 18-30 April.
