Outgoing South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF) president Augustino Madout has called for forgiveness and unity after a contentious election that saw him lose to Francis Amin amid accusations of manipulation and disqualification of rivals.
The federation’s general assembly in Juba was marked by controversy after several presidential contenders were barred from the race, prompting claims that Madout used his influence over the electoral committee to eliminate competitors.
Despite the bitterness, delegates ultimately voted in favor of Amin, who now assumes leadership of the body for the next four years.
Conceding defeat during Thursday’s handover, Madout struck a reconciliatory tone.
“We compete, we have failed the elections, but we remain friends,” he told the gathering.
“If I offended anyone in a way I never meant, please forgive me. This is the spirit of football, we compete, and after elections, we remain brothers.”
He further pledged full support to the incoming administration, promising to assist whenever called upon.
“I am ready to support you whenever you want me,” Madout assured Amin and his team.
For his part, President Francis Amin expressed gratitude to the congress delegates for their confidence and vowed to prioritize grassroots development and capacity-building programs for players, referees, and officials.
“We shall work to ensure that football is governed with dignity,” he said, while thanking Madout’s administration for its contributions.
The peaceful transition offers a rare moment of unity in South Sudan’s football politics, which have long been marred by infighting and accusations of bias.
While the election left bitterness among some factions, both leaders’ reconciliatory gestures signal hope for a more stable and united federation moving forward.
