Wetang’ula challenges new FKF president Hussein Mohammed to revive Kenyan football
By Lucy Mumbi |
Hussein and Mariga now face the challenge of rebuilding the national football scene and tackling the systemic issues plaguing the sport in Kenya.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on Hussein Mohammed, the newly elected president of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), to prioritise urgent reforms as he begins his term.
Wetang’ula, who congratulated Mohammed and his running mate, football legend McDonald Mariga, for their success in the December 7 elections, took to his X account on Sunday to outline key areas he believes need attention.
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He urged Hussein to adhere to their campaign slogan, “A Fresh Start”, and address the challenges facing football in Kenya.
“As your campaign slogan stated "a Fresh Start", make it start with a bang. Fix our sinking football,” Wetang’ula said.
He emphasised the need for a strong, competitive league system that could attract sponsorship and uplift both men’s and women’s football.
The Speaker highlighted the financial struggles that clubs in both the Kenya Premier League (KPL) and Kenya Women Premier League (KWPL) are facing, stressing the importance of making these leagues financially viable and appealing to sponsors.
Harambee Stars
He also called on the new leadership to restore Kenya’s pride on the international stage by revitalising the men’s national team, Harambee Stars.
"Return the country’s lost glory at the national level in football by breathing new life into Harambee Stars. You carry the hope of football enthusiasts...quench their thirst for top-flight football,” Wetang’ula added.
Hussein, who emerged victorious after a two-round election held at Kasarani Stadium, thanked the delegates who supported his “Fresh Start” campaign.
In the first round, he secured 42 votes, while his closest challenger, Doris Petra, got 31. Barry Otieno followed with 10 votes, while Cleophas Shimanyua and Twaha Mbarak each garnered four.
In the runoff, Hussein won decisively with 67 votes, while Petra and Otieno, who conceded after the first round, received one vote each.
Expressing his gratitude, Mohammed thanked all those who supported the “Fresh Start” team.
“Thank you to all the delegates who believed in the fresh start team and voted for change. This is not just our win – it’s a win for every player, fan, club, and supporter who dreams of a better future for our game," he said.
"The work to rebuild Kenyan football begins now. Together, we will restore pride, nurture talent, and bring back the passion that unites us all."
With a mandate in place, Hussein and Mariga now face the challenge of rebuilding the national football scene and tackling the systemic issues plaguing the sport in Kenya.
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