FKF modifies electoral code to broaden candidate eligibility

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has revised part of its Electoral Code, addressing concerns raised by the Sports Dispute Tribunal (SDT).

The Tribunal criticized the existing eligibility rules, arguing that they were overly restrictive and hindered fair competition.

Previously, the 2019-20 FKF Electoral Code required candidates to have been actively involved in football—whether as an NEC member, committee member, referee, coach, or in any other technical, medical, or administrative role within FKF, a league, or a club—for three out of the four years preceding their candidacy.

This rule has now been modified following a proposal by Tusker FC chairman Charles Gacheru, reducing the active involvement requirement to two of the last five years.

“We’re aiming for an open and transparent election. We don’t want unnecessary complications. Expect to receive the updated electoral code and the proposed changes within two days,” stated Nick Mwendwa, the outgoing FKF President, during the eagerly anticipated FKF Annual General Meeting held on Saturday.

Mwendwa, who is widely expected to seek another term, although he has yet to make an official announcement, encouraged candidates to conduct their campaigns without interrupting football activities. “I urge members to campaign by demonstrating how they can outperform those currently in office, including myself, but let’s ensure that football operations continue without disruption,” he said.

The FKF elections have been postponed due to ongoing legal battles. Mwendwa emphasized that FIFA has set a deadline for the elections to be conducted by the end of this year.