MONROVIA — The Court of Arbitration for Sport is expected to issue a ruling next week in a high-profile case between the Liberian Football Association and Jubilee Football Club, a decision that could reshape the country’s football league structure.
By Jaheim T. [email protected]
The case centers on the LFA’s April 2025 decision to relegate Jubilee FC to the Third Division after the club failed to pay a $10,000 fine. The penalty was imposed following the submission of a falsified Business Registry.
Legal arguments were presented Thursday via Zoom, with Jubilee FC represented by attorney Joseph Howe and the LFA by Legal Affairs Manager Cllr. Benedict A. Yarsiah.
Speaking at a press conference Howe argued that the LFA violated its own statutes and FIFA regulations by bypassing the proper judicial process. He said the club’s license was issued by the First Instance Board in September 2024, and although a complaint was filed in December 2025, the board investigated and fined Jubilee $1,000 after the club took corrective action.
“The decision taken by the LFA is not grounded in law. It has no basis,” Howe said at a press conference following the hearing.
He contended that relegation is not listed as a penalty in the LFA’s Book of sanction and can only occur if a club’s license is formally withdrawn which did not happen in Jubilee’s case.
Howe also criticized the role of LFA Secretary General Emmett Critter, who he said made the decision based on advice from the association’s legal committee. He argued that administrative officers cannot exercise judicial powers, which are reserved for the ethics, disciplinary and appeals committees.
“You must inform someone before taking action against them. That didn’t happen,” Howe said, citing a lack of due process.
The cost of the CAS procedure is estimated at $35,000, which Jubilee is paying in full after the LFA declined to contribute. The club is also seeking reimbursement for legal fees and related expenses.
A ruling in favor of Jubilee could result in the club’s reinstatement to the First Division and more than $30,000 in restitution. It could also disrupt the current league standings across all three divisions. A ruling in favor of the LFA would preserve the existing structure and have no impact on other clubs.
CAS previously denied multiple motions from the LFA, including attempts to dismiss the case and block the league’s commencement.
“We’re asking the court to restore Jubilee’s rights and dismiss the LFA’s claims,” Howe said. “This is about following the law, not favoritism.”
The CAS decision is expected next week.
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