Gor Mahia Football Club Chairman Ambrose Rachier has firmly defended his eligibility to seek a second term in office, issuing a bold challenge to his opponents.
Having led the club since 2008, Rachier is now vying for a second term under the 2019 constitution, following his first term, which began in 2020. His re-election bid has faced opposition, but he remains steadfast, citing both the club’s constitution and a ruling from the Sports Tribunal dated January 25.
Addressing the media during the announcement of Gor Mahia’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and election date, Rachier confirmed his intent to run for another term. He declared that he would be submitting his candidacy documents, emphasizing that he fully met the requirements set forth by the club’s governing framework.
“I am and I’ll be submitting my papers. They are all here,” he stated when questioned about his bid for a second term.
Despite resistance from challengers, Rachier remains confident in his eligibility. He pointed to both the Kenyan Constitution and Gor Mahia’s 2019 club constitution, which was the basis for the 2020 elections. He explained that the first term under this framework lasted four years, making him and other officials eligible for a second term.
To reinforce his position, Rachier referenced the Sports Tribunal’s ruling, which reaffirmed the provisions of Regulation 20 of the club’s 2019 constitution. The ruling explicitly states that the chairperson shall hold office for a term not exceeding four years but is eligible for re-election for one more term. Additionally, other officials are also allowed to serve a second term under the same conditions.
With legal backing on his side, Rachier issued a direct challenge to those opposing his bid. He asserted that any parties seeking to challenge his eligibility should take their case to court, expressing confidence that the existing legal framework would support his position.
“If you want to go to court to overrule it, please proceed,” he declared.
As the election date approaches, Gor Mahia Football Club has confirmed that its Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place on April 13, 2025. The upcoming elections are expected to attract significant attention, with Rachier’s bid setting the stage for an intense leadership contest.
Gor Mahia, one of Kenya’s most successful football clubs, has experienced notable achievements under Rachier’s leadership. However, the elections are likely to be fiercely contested, with various stakeholders keen on shaping the club’s future direction. As the campaign period unfolds, all eyes will be on the candidates vying for leadership positions, making this election a critical moment in the club’s history.
