Aasai

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohamed has come out strongly to dismiss widespread claims that Vice President McDonald Mariga has been removed from his position. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Hussein termed the allegations as false, misleading, and an attempt to distract from the federation’s ongoing efforts to prepare for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which Kenya is co-hosting.

The rumors, which first surfaced on social media and were amplified by some local journalists and bloggers, claimed that Mariga had been quietly replaced by Abdallah Yusuf, a co-opted member of the FKF National Executive Committee (NEC) and known close ally of Hussein. The reports alleged that the changes were made secretly and without official communication, sparking confusion and backlash among fans, stakeholders, and political observers.

The matter gained further traction when veteran sports journalist Collins Okinyo claimed that Mariga had been removed following internal wrangles and power struggles within FKF. His allegations pointed to a possible political split within the leadership structure of the federation, insinuating that some factions were dissatisfied with Mariga’s growing influence and loyalty to a rival camp.

However, Hussein swiftly moved to quash the claims, taking to his verified social media platforms to reaffirm Mariga’s position and denounce the reports as baseless. “There is no truth whatsoever in the rumors that our Vice President McDonald Mariga has been removed. Kindly disregard the misinformation circulating online,” Hussein wrote. “FKF is a professional institution governed by its constitution, which we strictly adhere to in all matters, including the leadership structure.”

He went on to explain that the FKF Constitution, particularly Article 41, outlines a clear and rigorous process for the removal of any elected official. According to the law, a dismissal must be initiated by either the NEC or at least one-third of the federation’s voting members, followed by a disciplinary process and a vote requiring a two-thirds majority at the General Assembly. Hussein noted that no such motion had been filed or discussed, adding that any change to FKF’s top leadership would follow this legally binding process.

Mariga, a former international footballer and public figure, has yet to issue a statement regarding the controversy. Nonetheless, Hussein’s clarification appears to have temporarily calmed the situation, although questions continue to linger over the internal politics at FKF.

The timing of the controversy is particularly sensitive. Kenya is in the final stages of preparing to host CHAN 2024, a continental tournament that provides a platform for local talent and strengthens regional football collaboration. The event is viewed as a major milestone for the country, and any perceived instability within FKF’s leadership could undermine both public confidence and international perception.

Hussein concluded his statement by urging unity and refocusing attention on the national goal of successfully hosting the championship. “Our focus remains on delivering CHAN 2024, uplifting our local talent, and ensuring Kenya takes its rightful place in African football,” he stated.

As FKF continues to navigate the road to CHAN 2024, the federation is under pressure to demonstrate not just technical readiness, but also organizational stability and transparency—qualities that will define its legacy beyond the tournament.