With the FKF elections fast approaching, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Presidential candidates have raised alarm over alleged voter register manipulation by the current FKF leadership. The aspirants, in a press conference held on Wednesday, called for immediate action to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process, as they outlined several demands for reform.

The candidates expressed concerns over what they claim are deliberate efforts by FKF President Nick Mwendwa’s administration to tamper with the voter register, which they say could undermine the integrity of the upcoming elections.

Key Demands to Restore Trust

The aspirants are pushing for the FKF Electoral Board to appoint an independent body, such as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) or the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), to oversee the election. They argue that an external entity would ensure neutrality and restore trust in the process.

Another critical demand is transparency in the voter register. The candidates want immediate notification to all stakeholders of any changes or updates to the register, in compliance with the 2013 Sports Act, to prevent any unfair alterations.

In one of the boldest calls, the candidates are demanding the complete removal of FKF President Nick Mwendwa and General Secretary Barry Otieno from any role in the electoral process. They have also called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate both officials over their conduct during the election preparations.

The candidates also called for the relocation of the FKF Electoral Board offices from Kandanda House, citing concerns about attempts to sabotage the election process at the current location.

To ensure the process is transparent and verifiable, the aspirants are calling for strict oversight from both local and international stakeholders, including the Ministry of Sports, CAF, and FIFA.

Additionally, they have requested a roundtable discussion with the FKF Electoral Board and key football stakeholders to ensure all parties endorse and support the election process.

Finally, the candidates are seeking clarity on the funding of the electoral process, demanding FKF reveal the source of financing and confirm whether the funds are available for the entire election period.

A Critical Juncture for Kenyan Football

The FKF Presidential aspirants have warned that failure to address these issues could jeopardize the legitimacy of the election and the future of football governance in Kenya. As the elections draw nearer, the football fraternity will be watching closely to see if the FKF Electoral Board, Ministry of Sports, and other authorities take the necessary steps to restore confidence in the process.