Veteran Journalist Elias Makori quits AFCON 2027 organising committee over unpaid dues, work culture
The former Head of Media Operations for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) said the decision came after reflecting on his experience during the.
Veteran Journalist Elias Makori quits AFCON 2027 LOC over unpaid dues and work culture concerns. (X/Team Kenya)
Veteran journalist Elias Makori has withdrawn from the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, citing unresolved payment issues, poor coordination and a work environment he says failed to support media professionals.
In a formal letter addressed to AFCON LOC Chief Executive Officer Antony Inzahuli Lung'aho, Makori announced that he would not participate in any future activities linked to the Pamoja AFCON 2027 tournament.
The former Head of Media Operations for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) said the decision came after reflecting on his experience during the continental competition, which was jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
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"I write to formally communicate my decision to step away from any future involvement with the Local Organising Committee and, consequently, to decline consideration for any role in the preparations and delivery of the Pamoja Africa Cup of Nations 2027 tournament," Makori stated.
A key concern raised by Makori was the failure to compensate him and members of the Media Operations team for their work during CHAN 2025. According to the veteran journalist, several follow-up letters and appeals to the relevant authorities have not yielded a resolution.
He argued that the continued delay in settling the payments raises questions about accountability and professionalism within the organising structure.
"The prolonged failure to honour these obligations has raised serious concerns regarding accountability, professionalism and respect for the contributions of those who dedicate their time, expertise and effort to the success of national sporting events," he said.
Makori also criticised what he described as a work culture that did not adequately value media practitioners, despite their critical role in delivering major sporting events.
Beyond the payment dispute, he expressed concern over the pace of preparations for AFCON 2027, claiming that several key operational timelines set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had not been met.
He further noted that decisions affecting media operations were being made without sufficient consultation, despite his previous experience and leadership role during CHAN 2025.
According to Makori, the challenges reflected broader shortcomings in planning, coordination and stakeholder engagement within the LOC.
He maintained that successful tournament organisation requires professional relationships built on transparency, accountability, integrity and mutual respect, values he believes were lacking in his dealings with the committee.
"Unfortunately, my experience with the Local Organising Committee has left me with the view that these principles have not been upheld to an acceptable standard. As a result, I do not wish to be associated with or serve within an organisation whose work ethic and treatment of its personnel fall short of these expectations," he added.
Makori's departure comes at a crucial stage of Kenya's preparations for AFCON 2027. The development coincides with reports that a CAF broadcasting delegation is expected in Nairobi on Sunday for an inspection visit as preparations for the continental showpiece gather momentum.