FKF General Assembly Approves Revised Electoral Code Ahead of Crucial Elections

The FKF General Assembly convened a Special General Meeting (SGM) at Nairobi Hotel on Saturday, where delegates passed a revised version of the 2020 electoral code. This development marks a critical step in the election process, signaling a renewed focus on governance and transparency within Kenyan football.

The revised electoral code, which was endorsed by 82 delegates, introduces key changes to the eligibility criteria for candidates contesting the FKF presidency. One of the most notable amendments is the reduction of the period a candidate must have been active in football matters—from three years to two years before the election. This amendment, proposed by Tusker FC’s Charles Gacheru, aims to broaden the pool of potential candidates while maintaining a level of experience necessary for leadership roles within FKF.

The proposal to amend the eligibility criteria came after concerns were raised by Luthers Mokua and Robert Macharia, the chairman of Murang’a SEAL. They highlighted the need for more inclusive participation in the electoral process. The assembly’s decision to adopt these amendments reflects an effort to address the concerns of various stakeholders while ensuring that the federation’s leadership remains connected to the grassroots of Kenyan football.

Charles Gacheru expressed satisfaction with the progress made at the SGM, acknowledging that while not all of his concerns were addressed, the amendments represent a step in the right direction. He emphasized the importance of improving the operational structures within FKF to prevent the escalation of issues to the courts—a problem that has plagued Kenyan football in recent years.

“I’m happy that we have started the journey to the elections, as the time for the current office bearers is almost over,” said Gacheru. “I’m also happy that we have those few amendments; you have seen I had written raising a lot more concerns, but at least some have been addressed. I, however, insist there is more to be done, especially on committees supposed to run the federation’s day-to-day activities, so that we don’t have issues escalating to courts every now and then.”

The meeting was also attended by Hussein Mohammed, the Vice Chairman of Murang’a SEAL, who expressed his satisfaction with the proceedings. Hussein, who had previously faced challenges in participating in such meetings, acknowledged the importance of moving forward with the election process. He announced his intention to formally declare his candidacy for the FKF presidency on August 28.

“I’m happy, at least today you see me here. Remember last time I could not be allowed,” said Hussein. “We have essentially started in earnest the journey towards the elections, which for me is very important. I thank all the delegates for the progress made. We have a big duty ahead of us, and I want to believe we will get there.”

Former FKF president Sam Nyamweya, attending the SGM as an official observer, highlighted the importance of setting a clear roadmap for the upcoming elections. Nyamweya, who led FKF before the current president Nick Mwendwa took over in 2016, underscored the need to resolve the electoral process swiftly to avoid potential sanctions from FIFA.

“We have very serious football matters ahead of us, and we need our house in order as a country for us to successfully handle them,” said Nyamweya. “The Under-17 World Cup, CHAN, AFCON 2027 among other events require that we finish this election matter so that we can concentrate on the main business. We must look at the bigger picture.”

FKF President Nick Mwendwa used the occasion to reflect on the achievements of his administration, emphasizing the federation’s progress in coaching education, referee certification, and the improvement of national teams. Mwendwa encouraged potential candidates to campaign diligently and urged members to avoid taking football disputes to ordinary courts, a recurring issue in Kenyan football.

The SGM was observed by Davis Ndayesiga of Rwanda, representing FIFA, and Rose Wasike, the Sports Registrar, who both played crucial roles in ensuring the integrity of the proceedings. As FKF prepares for its upcoming elections, the revised electoral code represents a significant step toward a more inclusive and transparent governance structure within Kenyan football.