The National Sports Council (NSC) played a pivotal role as observers during the Gambia Wrestling Association (GWA) elective congress held on Saturday, 30th November 2024. The congress, which brought together 104 out of 109 delegates, marked a significant milestone in Gambian wrestling, electing Matarr Saine as the new president.
Saine secured 63 votes to defeat his opponent Omar Saidykhan, popularly known as “Double Less,” who garnered 41 votes. In a commendable act of sportsmanship, Saidykhan declared the elections free and fair, congratulated Saine, and announced his and his team’s withdrawal from contesting the remaining positions. This move paved the way for the unopposed election of the rest of the executive committee.
The newly elected GWA executive committee includes:
• President: Mr. Matarr Saine
• First Vice President: Mr. Basiru Mbye
• Second Vice President: Mr. Ousman Njie
• Secretary General: Mrs. Aisatou Njira BN Corr
• Assistant Secretary General: Mr. Ebrima Marong
• Treasurer: Mr. Barrow Cessay
• Assistant Treasurer: Mrs. Ndey Fatou Secka
• Auditor: Mr. Samba Njie
• Public Relations Officer: Mr. Ebrima Jatta
Representing the NSC at the congress as official observers were Program Manager Ebrima Secka, Communications and Public Relations Manager Sara Camara, and Desk Officer for Wrestling Alhaji Abdoulie Bojang. Their presence ensured transparency and underscored NSC’s commitment to fostering fair and democratic processes in sports governance.
The congress signifies the beginning of a new chapter for Gambian wrestling under the leadership of Matarr Saine, whose tenure is expected to further elevate the sport. On behalf of the outgoing executive led by Serign Modou Faye, congratulations were extended to the new leadership team, wishing them a successful and impactful tenure in office.