The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Electoral Board has raised concerns over delays in receiving full payment for their work during the December elections. Despite conducting a well-organized and transparent electoral process, the board members have yet to be fully compensated for their efforts, causing significant frustration.
The elections, which resulted in the selection of new leadership on December 7, were widely praised for their fairness and efficiency. However, the board members have only been paid for one month, with the remaining dues still outstanding. They had anticipated receiving the full payment by the end of December, but this has not happened. The delay has left the team feeling undervalued, especially given the extensive time and effort they invested to ensure the success of the polls.
Members of the board have expressed disappointment, citing the long hours and dedication required to conduct the elections. Many worked late into the night to ensure every detail was addressed and the process was flawless. The lack of timely compensation has undermined their morale and raised questions about the support and appreciation they receive for their contributions.
The situation has been further complicated by the resignation of the board’s chairman, who stepped down amidst the ongoing challenges. This resignation has added to the uncertainty surrounding the board’s operations, particularly as the duration of its mandate was not clearly defined at the time of its formation. With the leadership in flux and unresolved payment issues, the board’s ability to complete its remaining tasks has been called into question.
Two county elections remain pending after being suspended due to disputes. Polls in Nyamira and Homa Bay were halted following legal challenges, and the courts have since ordered fresh elections. The board is now responsible for establishing a roadmap for these elections, but the current circumstances threaten to derail the process. The lack of funds and leadership instability has made it difficult for the board to move forward with the required preparations.
The Electoral Board was established and ratified during a meeting in August 2024. It included members with diverse backgrounds, such as the chairman, a secretary, and several other experienced individuals. The board also relied on a secretariat to manage daily operations during the election period, ensuring that the process ran smoothly and adhered to high standards of transparency and fairness.
Despite their efforts and the positive outcome of the elections, the unresolved payment issue has cast a shadow over the board’s achievements. The situation has created uncertainty about the board’s capacity to carry out its remaining duties, particularly the fresh elections mandated by the court. Without a resolution to these financial and leadership challenges, the successful completion of the electoral process may be at risk.
The delay in payment not only affects the board members’ morale but also raises broader concerns about the support and recognition given to those tasked with overseeing critical democratic processes. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to ensure the continuity and credibility of the remaining electoral activities.
