Former international MacDonald Mariga has assumed the role of Acting President of the Football Kenya Federation following the suspension of Hussein Mohammed amid ongoing investigations.
In a statement, Mariga confirmed that multiple agencies—including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, Insurance Regulatory Authority, Public Procurement Regulatory Authority, Confederation of African Football and FIFA—had launched investigations into the matter.
“To ensure continuity of operations, the National Executive Committee has mandated me to take up the role of Acting President, which I have accepted and assumed with immediate effect,” Mariga said.
He added that immediate measures would be taken to safeguard the integrity of the process, including preserving evidence, freezing relevant accounts and reviewing existing contracts.
Meanwhile, Mohammed defended his tenure, highlighting achievements made during his 15 months in office and dismissing allegations linked to insurance arrangements for the 2025 African Nations Championship.
In a strongly worded statement, he said the federation had made significant strides in reforming Kenyan football, citing improved governance, successful hosting of international tournaments and renewed confidence from global football bodies.
Among the milestones, he pointed to Kenya’s hosting of CHAN 2025 and the FIFA Women’s Series, participation of the Harambee Stars in the FIFA Series finals in March 2026, and the qualification of the Harambee Starlets for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Mohammed also noted that Kenya’s profile in continental football had been boosted, including recognition at the CAF Awards where President William Ruto received an Outstanding Achievement Award for the country’s hosting of CHAN.
He further said FIFA had lifted earlier restrictions imposed on Kenya following financial reforms, paving the way for expanded development initiatives such as FIFA Arena pitches and a technical centre in Machakos.
Addressing claims circulating online over insurance procurement for CHAN 2025, Mohammed termed them “malicious” and “unfounded,” insisting that the insurance cover was arranged by CAF and not the federation.
“The required insurance cover for CHAN 2025 was procured by CAF and maintained throughout the tournament. FKF did not transfer any funds to insurance providers,” he said.
He maintained there was no loss of funds and challenged critics to provide evidence to the contrary, alleging that the claims were part of a smear campaign aimed at undermining reforms within the federation.
“When you fight corruption, it fights back,” Mohammed said, adding that recent restructuring efforts had triggered resistance from vested interests.
He expressed willingness to cooperate with investigative agencies but cautioned against distractions that could derail the federation’s mandate.
Mohammed also clarified that financial and administrative functions within FKF are handled by the General Secretary as the accounting officer, while the president provides strategic leadership.
He reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to transparency and accountability and urged the media to uphold accuracy in reporting.
Kenya is currently preparing, alongside Uganda and Tanzania, to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with CAF President Patrice Motsepe expressing confidence in the region’s readiness.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
