Monrovia – Liberia’s sports and youth development initiatives face a storm of controversy as allegations emerge against former Sports Ambassador Alioune Kebé, a Senegalese national, whose appointment and subsequent conduct have sparked outrage.
By: Willie N. Tokpah/Staff Writer
Kebé, who was appointed to the prestigious ambassadorial role is accused of exploiting workers and showing deep disrespect toward Liberians.
Abraham Massalay, an Assistant Coach for Kebé’s undocumented Sports Academy, made the fierce revelations in an exclusive interview with a journalist, alleging that Kebé once referred to all Liberians as “imbéciles,” a French insult implying stupidity.
According to Massalay, Kebé’s behavior has left a trail of disillusionment among Liberian athletes and sports stakeholders.
“This man openly disrespected all Liberians, even in front of his Senegalese associates. It’s unacceptable for someone who represented our country,” said Massalay, a seasoned Liberian footballer from Lofa County.
Massalay further revealed he had severed ties with Kebé’s operations due to a combination of unpaid wages and disrespectful treatment.
“I was never paid for my work. Instead, he focused on bringing in Senegalese nationals while neglecting Liberians,” Massalay intoned.
Beyond allegations of verbal insults, Kebé is accused of abusing his former diplomatic privileges to enrich himself.
Massalay claims that Kebé continues to use diplomatic passports and titles to solicit money from foreign nationals, particularly French investors.
According to him, Kebe facilitated the illegal entry of French nationals involved in questionable mining operations in Liberia’s southeastern regions.
He added, that these actions undermine the integrity of Liberia’s institutions and resources.
These accusations have reignited debate about the President’s reliance on foreign appointees for critical roles.
Critics argue that Kebé’s appointment reflects a broader issue of misplaced trust and poor vetting.
Massalay urged President Joseph Boakai to take decisive action.
“We need to entrust sports development to Liberians who have the passion, ideas, and integrity to build our youth programs. Foreign nationals with no loyalty to our country should not have the opportunity to exploit us,” Massalay stressed.
Political Implications for President Boakai
This scandal poses a challenge to President Boakai’s administration, which has been under scrutiny for its governance decisions.
Kebe has not responded to the allegation, following series of calls and text messages send to him and via his whatsaap number (+231 88 100 3008) since four days, after being called to provide clarity on the allegation.
Massalay’s revelations further serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform in Liberia’s sports and youth development sector.
With growing dissatisfaction over Kebé’s actions, Massalay is calling for President Boakai’s leadership to prioritize national interests over personal gains.
