Historic Vote Reshapes South Sudan Football
Francis Amin returned to football’s top seat in South Sudan after defeating incumbent General Augustine Maduot in a federation election that observers in Juba hailed as calm and credible. Amin captured 26 of the 38 ballots, securing leadership until 2029.
Contested Ballot Draws Clear Winner
Maduot, who steered the South Sudan Football Federation for four years, obtained 12 votes and quickly conceded. “Defeat will not send me away from the sport,” he told journalists, stressing his readiness to collaborate with the incoming administration.
Promises of Grassroots Revival
Campaigning under the slogan “Back to the Pitch,” Amin prioritised youth leagues, women’s competitions, and completion of the Juba National Stadium project, long delayed despite FIFA grants. He framed revitalisation as key to uniting a country still healing from conflict.
Stakeholders React with Cautious Optimism
Akol Panchol of Bor Association voiced confidence that stronger budgeting would follow. “We supported Francis because we believe he will bring positive changes,” he explained outside the voting hall. Supporters of Maduot, including businessman Ibrahim Riak, also praised the “transparent process.”
A Look Back at Amin’s First Term
During 2017-2021, Amin championed South Sudan’s maiden World Cup qualifiers and secured full FIFA membership, doubling registered clubs. Critics, however, pointed to stalled stadium renovations and inconsistent player allowances, issues that now return to his desk.
Road Ahead: Funding, Facilities, Unity
Economists note that South Sudan’s fragile economy limits public sports funding, leaving the federation reliant on FIFA disbursements and private sponsors. Amin has signalled plans to court regional telecom and energy firms, echoing successful models in neighbouring Uganda and Kenya.
Completion of the 7,000-seat Juba National Stadium remains the symbolic test. Construction resumed in January after new contracts were signed, but engineers warn that heavy rains could push the opening past 2025, potentially affecting planned AfCON qualifiers.
Analysts also highlight the delicate ethnic balance within squads. Amin pledged to maintain an inclusive selection policy, stating that “football should mirror national diversity, not division,” an approach sports sociologist Mary Ajak regards as vital for lasting stability.