Anger as GSC Extends Nomination Deadline for Elective Congress

A wave of discontent is sweeping through the sports community in Gunjur Sports Development Academy WhatsApp forum following a controversial decision by the Gunjur Sports Committee (GSC) to extend the nomination deadline for its upcoming elective congress. The deadline, originally set for June 9, has now been pushed to June 20, sparking backlash from stakeholders and raising concerns over the integrity of the process.

GSC said in a statement that for extension was necessary “due to incomplete nominations for some key positions which the committee feels the need for those positions to be filled before the date of the Elective Congress”.

Howver, the move has been met with strong criticism from members of the sports forum, many of whom have accused the GSC of lacking transparency and failing to adhere to its constitutional obligations.

Among the most vocal critics is Ousman Bojang. In an open letter addressed to Hon. Momodou Charreh Jibba, Councilor for Gunjur Ward, and copied to the Village Development Committee (VDC), Bojang described the extension as “unconstitutional” and a “delay tactic” that could undermine preparations for the upcoming 2025–2026 Nawettan season.

“This decision has not only raised serious questions about transparency and fairness but also threatens the timely organisation of the Nawettan season,” Bojang wrote. “We are now left with little or no time to properly coordinate the eliminations and set up the Nawettan calendar.”

The Gunjur Nawettan is an annual community football competition which holds significant social and developmental importance in Gunjur. It provides a critical platform for youth engagement, talent development, and community cohesion. Preparations for the season, including elimination rounds, team registrations, and logistical arrangements, traditionally begin well before the rains set in.

Stakeholders now fear that the extended nomination timeline could compress the calendar, leaving organisers scrambling to meet deadlines and potentially compromising the quality of the tournament.

Calls are growing for immediate intervention by local authorities to ensure the electoral process adheres to the constitution governing community sports administration. Bojang urged the Councilor’s office to safeguard the principles of good governance and uphold the interests of the youth and the wider community.

As of now, the GSC has not issued an official statement to react to the stiff opposition of the extension, nor has it addressed the growing public concerns.