Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed has denied claims that former Harambee Stars midfielder McDonald Mariga was secretly removed as Vice President.
Hussein on Tuesday dismissed speculations that he had appointed Abdallah Yusuf, a co-opted member in the FKF Executive Committee, as Mariga’s replacement.
Through his official social media handle on X, Hussein urged the public to ignore the unverified reports circulating online.
This follows social media reports and posts shared by renowned Kenyan sports journalists, suggesting that Mariga had been ousted from his FKF Vice President position.
The reports further alleged that FKF NEC member Abdallah Yusuf, who is Hussein’s right-hand man, had replaced Mariga.
“Kindly disregard misinformation circulating on social media. FKF is an institution guided by its constitution, which we strictly adhere to. Our focus remains on delivering a successful CHAN 2024 and raising the standards of Kenyan football,” posted Hussein on his social media channels.
Top sports journalists had previously alleged that there was “trouble in paradise,” internal wrangles, and a growing leadership rift, with Mariga and Hussein not seeing eye to eye.
Further reports indicated that Hussein felt threatened by Mariga’s goodwill among football stakeholders and his aggressiveness in executing his duties.
However, the speculations hold no water, as the removal of an elected official must follow clear legal protocols.
According to Article 41 of the FKF Constitution, a dismissal must be proposed either by the National Executive Committee (NEC) or at least one-third of FKF members.
The NEC then votes on the motion, and a two-thirds majority is necessary for the removal. The the individual facing dismissal also has the right to defend themselves before the final decision is made.
The post further alleged that Hussein was sabotaging Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy to remove him from the post.
Mariga and Abdallah Yusuf could not be reached for comment as their phones went unanswered.
Speculations have been circulating for the past two weeks, as Kenya co-hosts the African Nations Championship (CHAN) from 2 to 30 August.
Hussein beat the outgoing vice-president Doris Petra, and seven others to ascend to the highest football seat in the country on 7 December 2024.
by GEORGE AJWALA
