FKF President Hussein Mohamed Blames McDonald Mariga for Power Struggle

Kenya's Football Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohamed has publicly accused his former deputy, McDonald Mariga, of attempting to seize power and control of the organization. In an interview with Taifa Leo, Mohamed claimed that Mariga's actions were driven by a desire for power and a disregard for the well-being of the federation. Mohamed stated that the problems began just a month after he and Mariga were elected to lead the FKF.

Mohamed alleged that Mariga sought to dominate all aspects of the federation, including national teams, leagues, management, and finances. He claimed that Mariga wanted to reduce him to a figurehead with no real authority. Mohamed stated that he refused to accept such an arrangement, citing his position as president and Mariga's role as his deputy. Mohamed also revealed that Mariga had traveled with national teams on several occasions, with some trips funded by Mohamed himself.

Mohamed further accused Mariga of attempting to infiltrate various committees to advance his personal interests. He recalled that Mariga had recently claimed not to have received a salary, but Mohamed questioned where the funds would come from, given the financial constraints of the FKF. Mohamed also mentioned that Mariga had expressed discontent with the appointment of Harold Ndege as CEO of the FKF, allegedly due to a preference for another candidate.

However, Mohamed suggested that Mariga and Ndege had recently reconciled and were now working together to oppose him. Mohamed also cited Mariga's efforts to halt the Chapa Dimba tournament this year as one of the issues that had caused him significant concern. Mohamed stated that he had attempted to resolve their differences through dialogue and had agreed to some of Mariga's demands, but ultimately realized that Mariga's actions were driven by ambition and a desire for power.

Mohamed expressed disappointment that Mariga had chosen to pursue his ambitions through means that contravened FIFA regulations, including taking their disputes to court, the Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and Parliament. He argued that such actions undermined the management of Kenyan football and contravened FIFA directives. Mohamed emphasized that Mariga, if genuinely interested in the presidency, should wait for the 2028 elections rather than attempting to seize power within the current leadership.

The conflict between Mohamed and Mariga has significant implications for Kenyan football, with concerns about the potential impact on the sport's development and stability. The FKF has recently launched initiatives aimed at promoting football, including a four-year strategy to improve women's football. However, internal conflicts within the organization may hinder progress and create uncertainty for stakeholders.

The fallout between Mohamed and Mariga has raised questions about the governance and leadership of Kenyan football. The FKF has a critical role in promoting and developing the sport, and internal disputes can have far-reaching consequences. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the organization will address these challenges and ensure the continued growth and success of football in Kenya.

Key points

• FKF President Hussein Mohamed accuses McDonald Mariga of seeking to overthrow him and gain control of the football federation.