Gor Mahia has announced its plans to conduct elections within the next 90 days following a ruling by the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT). The tribunal had previously declared the current Executive Committee’s tenure as unlawful after their term expired on August 8, 2024. Despite the expiration, the SDT allowed the current officials to remain in office temporarily until the elections are held. It also mandated that the elections be conducted in accordance with the club’s constitution and the Sports Act, 2013. Only members who were registered by December 31, 2024, will be eligible to vote, acknowledging their legitimate right to participate.
Club Chairman Ambrose Rachier emphasized that the club intends to fully comply with the tribunal’s directive. “We are more than happy to call the elections. Plans are to comply with the tribunal order, and on Tuesday we will appear for a mention at the tribunal. Afterward, we should be able to announce a roadmap, inviting interested candidates to express their interest,” Rachier told the media. He also stressed that the elections should not overshadow the club’s main focus, which is competing for this season’s title. “I urge everyone not to put elections above the club’s interests. We are still hunting for this season’s title, and everything should be conducted responsibly,” he added.
Rachier’s remarks came during the unveiling of the club’s new head coach, Sinisa Mihic, a Croatian coach hired on a six-month contract with the option of an extension based on performance. Mihic replaces interim coach Zedekiah Otieno, who had been managing the team since the departure of Brazilian coach Leonardo Neiva in November 2024. The new coach’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the club, as they aim to strengthen their position in the ongoing season.
Currently, Gor Mahia sits in third place in the Kenyan Premier League standings, with Kenya Police and Tusker FC leading the race for the title. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the elections, Rachier’s primary focus is on ensuring that the team performs well in the league. His statement about not allowing the electoral process to hinder the team’s objectives underscores the importance of maintaining focus on football performance during this transitional period.
Rachier’s leadership is pivotal in navigating this phase, as the club’s management faces the dual challenge of handling internal governance changes while keeping the team’s focus on achieving success on the field. The elections are expected to bring in new leadership for the club, which may alter the direction and management style of Gor Mahia in the future.
The club has a rich history, with passionate supporters and a strong legacy in Kenyan football, and Rachier’s call for unity and responsibility in this period reflects his understanding of the broader impact of the elections. With the league title still up for grabs, Gor Mahia’s future depends on how well they balance the internal management changes with their on-field objectives.
As Gor Mahia prepares for the elections, fans will be looking for clarity on the club’s direction and leadership. However, Rachier’s leadership and commitment to the team’s goals signal that the club’s interests will remain the top priority, with the elections being seen as a necessary process to ensure governance remains in line with the club’s long-term vision.
The coming months will be critical for the club as they attempt to secure silverware while navigating the complexities of a leadership transition. Whether this season will see them reclaim the title or fall short, one thing is clear: Gor Mahia’s focus on football remains unwavering, and the leadership, whether temporary or new, will continue to prioritize the success of the team both on and off the pitch.
