Calls on National ISSA Body to Support Raji
Monrovia Liberia – Murvee Gray, an executive committee member of the Liberia Football Association (LFA) and assistant minister of youth and sports, has formally endorsed Mustapha Raji’s third term as president, urging football affiliates to put continuity over change.
Gray announced that he will not run for reelection to the Executive Committee when his term ends in April during a strategic meeting with important football stakeholders, including the Inter-School Sports Association (ISSA), the Liberia Football Coaches Association, the Liberia Football Referees Association, the Liberia Oldtimers National Association, and academic sports leaders.
Gray told the assembly, “We decided years ago that we would serve one term, and that term ends in April. We called the affiliates as we get closer to Congress to thank them and let them know exactly where we stand.”
Gray’s support stems from a long political conflict within the LFA. He reminded affiliates members of the difficulties they encountered in obtaining the right to vote at the LFA Congress, which accomplishment he primarily attributes to Raji’s leadership.
In particular, he emphasized Raji’s contribution to the unification of the diverse school sports systems into a unified, national ISSA organization. “Because of that vision, we are organized in all 15 counties and Montserrado today,” he said.
Gray encouraged the member to stay together, cautioning that if they divided their support, the influence they battled for may be compromised. In response to those who argue that his endorsement of Raji is motivated by ethnic or personal allegiance, the Assistant Minister cited concrete infrastructure developments throughout Liberia as the main factor.
Gray clarified, “I support him because of the level of work he has done, not because he is my kinsman. Examine the growth of regional technical hubs and artificial turf initiatives. There will be a regional hub even in my hometown. We are unable to overlook these issues.”
As the LFA election draws near, Gray’s backing is expected to increase Raji’s sway over the school and academic sports vote divisions. These affiliates have served as judges in LFA elections in the past. Gray’s public remarks negatively impact those in the opposition who are attempting to win over the youth and school sports vote.
credit: Christopher C. Walker
