FIFA threatens to ban Kenya from international activities over FKF disbandment
The world governing body of football association, FIFA, has threatened to ban Kenya from international football competitions if the Sports Cabinet Secretary does not reverse the decision to disband the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) board.
In a letter to FKF secretary-general Barry Otieno, FIFA said CS Amina Mohamed’s actions were in strict breach of FIFA’s regulations outlawing political interference and action will be taken if the matter is not resolved soon.
FIFA has called on the CS to adhere to FIFA rules and FKF independence to prevent Kenya from being banned.
“We kindly ask you to inform the Cabinet Secretary that in the event her decision to appoint a FKF Caretaker Committee and correlated secretariat was to be upheld, we would have no other choice than to submit the present matter to the Bureau of FIFA Council for consideration and decision,” a letter signed by FIFA’s Chief Member Associations Officer Kenny Jean-Marie read.
According to FIFA the ban on Kenya will affect all football activities and not just individuals who may have been involved in one way or another.
“All FIFA member federations, including FKF, are required by law to manage their affairs freely and without undue influence by other actors,” read the letter.
FIFA said it was willing to hold a meeting with FKF and the Ministry of Sports to address any concerns.
“Finally, and as referred to in the Cabinet Secretary’s letter of 18 October 2021, we would like to emphasize on our willingness to hold a meeting with the FKF and the Ministry of Sport as soon as possible so as to address any concern both sides may have and, all together, to decide on a way forward for the sake of Kenyan football,” stated the letter.
The CS yesterday disbanded the FKF that is led by Nick Mwendwa and appointed the committee chaired by retired judge Aaron Ringera to mandate the country’s football business.
The FKF was disbanded following an audit report which was recommended by an inspection committee the CS formed to investigate the national football organization that is facing allegations of corruption.
The committee chaired by Ringera has among others former international Kenyan footballer and rugby player Dr JJ Masiga,FKF Premier league side Kenya Police FC head coach Bobby Ogola and Harambee Starlets international Neddy Atieno.
Others in the 15-member committee include retired General Moses Oyugi, Fatma Adan, Philip Musyimi, Anthony Isayi, Elisha Kiplangat, Hassan Mahmoud Hajji, Fredrick Lekesike, Ali Amour, former FKF vice president Titus Kasuve and former Kenya Rugby Union bosses Mwangi Muthee and Richard Omwela.
