Why AFC Leopards Chairman Refused To Back Mariga’s Expulsion

AFC Leopards chairman Boniface Ambani believes disagreements over Kenya’s involvement in major football projects have contributed to the leadership crisis that has engulfed the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

Speaking after Saturday’s Special General Meeting in Meru, Ambani pointed to tensions surrounding the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as key issues dividing federation officials.

He suggested that some administrators were unhappy with how they were involved in the CHAN preparations and feared being sidelined again during the AFCON process.

Ambani’s remarks came after FKF delegates voted to remove vice-president McDonald Mariga and six other National Executive Committee members.

He was the sole delegate to reject Mariga’s expulsion, while 65 voted in support of the motion.

The former Harambee Stars striker said his decision was based on the belief that disagreements should not prevent football stakeholders from working together.

He also challenged administrators to shift their attention from internal disputes to the needs of players.

Ambani questioned the credibility of ambitions to make the Kenyan league one of Africa’s leading competitions when federation officials remained locked in repeated confrontations.

He called for the rival sides within FKF to engage in discussions and find solutions instead of allowing their differences to affect the game’s progress.

The seven officials faced accusations presented by West Pokot FKF chairman Kibet Kaino, including alleged constitutional violations, taking the federation to court and unauthorised communication with third parties.

The meeting approved all seven removal motions, with the expulsions taking immediate effect.

https://x.com/SportyFMKE/status/2119059598791602260?a=ht3PqCvKVpjtXyiPn8I&s=19

NewsClock feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com