Members of Parliament in Kenya have intervened in the ongoing turmoil surrounding the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), advocating for the establishment of a normalisation committee in accordance with FIFA rules. This call was led by Kiminini Member of Parliament Kaikai Bissau, who requested a statement from the chairperson of the departmental committee on sports and culture. The proposed committee aims to address governance disputes disrupting the sport in the country.
The governance disputes within the FKF have severely impacted operations, causing a delay in the kick-off of the 2026–2027 Kenya Premier League season. MP Bissau highlighted the significant financial strain on club owners due to the indefinite delay. Club owners, including Bissau, who is the patron of Bazoo Boys, are incurring substantial costs for players' upkeep, salaries, and league preparation without a definite commencement date.
The parliamentary inquiry also targets administrative failures affecting the national team, Harambee Stars. Bissau raised concerns over unpaid allowances to national team players and pending work permits for Harambee Stars head coach Bennie McCarthy and his technical team. He warned that the situation risks undermining players' welfare and morale, disrupting football development, and affecting the country's preparations for upcoming international competitions.
In proposing a FIFA-sanctioned pathway to reset the federation, Bissau noted that while government interference is prohibited, a Normalisation Committee can be formed to address the current destructive tendencies. This committee would help resolve the governance disputes and ensure compliance with FIFA rules.
The Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture has been tasked with providing clear answers on the FKF governance disputes. They need to clarify the exact nature and cost of the disputes, official timelines for the league commencement, and outstanding amounts owed to Harambee Stars players. Additionally, they must address the status of coach Bennie McCarthy's work permit.
The disputes and delays may affect Kenya's preparedness to co-host and compete in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The committee's findings and actions will be crucial in determining the future of football in Kenya and ensuring compliance with international regulations.
The MPs' intervention underscores the urgency of resolving the FKF governance disputes. By advocating for a normalisation committee, they aim to restore stability to Kenyan football and ensure that the sport can continue without further disruptions.
Key points
- MPs in Kenya call for a normalisation committee to address FKF governance disputes.
- The disputes have delayed the 2026–2027 Kenya Premier League season and affected Harambee Stars.
- A normalisation committee would help resolve the issues in accordance with FIFA rules.
