By OUR CORRESPONDENT
The battle for FKF presidency has begun in earnest with former international Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino becoming the first candidate to launch his bid.
According to Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, FKF elections will be held in February next year following the expiry of incumbent Nick Mwendwa’s second five-year term.
A roadmap towards the elections is yet to be released by the minister.
On Tuesday, Owino, a former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars forward launched his bid promising to revamp the game.
He will face off with former FKF President Sam Nyamweya, Extreme Sports Chief Executive Officer Hussein Mohammed, former FKF Vice President Twaha Mbarak, former Gor Mahia Secretary General Sam Ocholla, Murang’a Seal Chairman Robert Macharia, and former FKF CEO Ludovick Aduda among others.
FKF chief executive officer Barry Otieno is also said to be in the race. It’s unclear if Mwendwa will contest since he has completed his two terms in office. According to the Sports Act, federation officials can only serve for two terms.
Kempes promised to ensure accountability and also put in place structures for the development of the game from the grassroots.
“I am a beneficiary of football. I have seen what it can do and the opportunities it offers. It is football that enabled me to travel worldwide so I know that it can change lives. My vision for the sport in this country is to make it an example of the possibilities in Kenya when everything is done right,” he said.
Recently, Nyamweya declared his intention to reclaim the seat. “I’m coming back because I laid a good foundation and I intend to continue with the good job that I started,” Nyamweya was quoted.
