Delegates, Stakeholders Accuse Hussein Mohammed of Coercive Tactics in FKF Elections

By Catherine Muema On Nov 25, 2024

FKF Elections — Football Kenya Federation Presidential aspirant Hussein Mohammed addressing the journalists in Nairobi

By Shadrack Nyakoe

A group of Football Kenya Federation (FKF) delegates and stakeholders have criticized presidential candidate Hussein Mohammed for allegedly leveraging county governors to coerce votes in the upcoming FKF elections.

Speaking to Corporate Watch, several county delegates claimed that Hussein has resorted to using governors as intermediaries to pressure branch officials and clubs into supporting his candidacy after realizing his slim chances of winning.

“Hussein should approach us directly and present his vision for football. Instead, he is relying on governors to intimidate officials into voting for him,” one county chairman stated.

Hussein is reportedly engaging governors from various regions, including Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley, and the Coast, as well as cabinet secretaries in ministries overseeing sports clubs. Delegates from these regions have accused him of targeting recently elected officials and clubs to bolster his support base.

Critics argue that Hussein’s approach is counterproductive, as many delegates question his inability to attract support independently. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the lack of commitment from the county officials he collaborates with, particularly in promoting grassroots football activities.

For example, Kisumu County Sports Executive Beatrice Odongo has faced backlash for allegedly pressuring clubs to back Hussein while failing to provide adequate support for their initiatives.

Hussein’s tactics have reportedly flopped in several regions, including Nairobi, where attempts to mobilize governors to sway votes proved unsuccessful. Delegates accuse him of opportunism, attending tournaments organized by politicians to promote his campaign without directly addressing stakeholders’ concerns.

As the FKF elections approach, many stakeholders are calling for transparency and fairness, urging candidates to focus on their policies and vision rather than coercion. Hussein’s alleged strategy has raised questions about his ability to lead the federation effectively.