The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Electoral Board is working hard to ensure transparency in the upcoming FKF elections, despite concerns raised by presidential candidates. Dan Mulee, a member of the board, has addressed the issues publicly, reaffirming that all complaints are being taken seriously. In this article, we explore the ongoing electoral process, the concerns raised by the candidates, and the FKF’s response.
Background: Growing Concerns from Presidential Candidates
Five presidential candidates running for the FKF presidency recently expressed serious concerns over the transparency of the upcoming elections. They questioned the impartiality of the FKF Electoral Board and raised issues about possible manipulation of the voter register in over 30 counties, potentially affecting 372 delegates.
The candidates, led by former international footballer Harold Ndege, claimed that the electoral board had not adequately addressed these concerns. According to Ndege, the alleged voter register tampering would undermine the fairness of the election, a concern that has garnered significant attention.
The blatant manipulation of the FKF voter register threatens the integrity of our upcoming elections. Alongside my fellow FKF Presidential candidates, I call for immediate action from the FKF Electoral Board, Ministry of Sports, CAF, and FIFA.
We demand a transparent audit of… pic.twitter.com/rS86dRmZg4
— Hussein Mohammed (@husseinmoha) October 3, 2024
Dan Mulee’s Response: Assuring Transparency and Fairness
In a statement responding to these claims, FKF Electoral Board member Dan Mulee sought to calm the situation, emphasizing that the electoral process is still ongoing. Mulee stated that the board has provided an open line of communication for complaints and grievances, and every issue is being addressed as it arises.
“We have an open line for complaints and are handling each one carefully. The period for resolving these issues is still ongoing, so it’s puzzling why concerns are being raised prematurely,” he stated.
This reassurance from Mulee comes at a crucial time, as tensions rise among the candidates over the perceived lack of transparency in the process.
Addressing the Voter Register Concerns
One of the key concerns raised by the candidates was the alleged tampering with the voter register in 30 counties, which could potentially impact the election outcome. Ndege’s claims, along with those of his fellow candidates, pointed out that 372 delegates could be affected, creating a serious issue for the election’s legitimacy.
Mulee, however, assured that the voter register is being handled with full transparency and that the FKF Electoral Board is working to ensure that only legitimate delegates are registered to vote. He encouraged the candidates to continue raising their concerns through the proper channels.
“We are listening to everyone and handling all complaints as they come. The period to sort out all outstanding issues has not even ended, and we don’t understand why some people are raising issues prematurely,” he reiterated.
Independence of the FKF Electoral Board: No Interference from FKF Leadership
Another major issue raised by the candidates was the alleged interference of FKF President Nick Mwendwa and CEO Barry Otieno in the electoral process. According to the candidates, Mwendwa and Otieno had been influencing the electoral board to ensure a favorable outcome for certain individuals.
Mulee was quick to dismiss these allegations, stating categorically that Mwendwa and Otieno had no involvement in the operations of the electoral board.
“We are working independently, and the two have never given us any instructions regarding the process,” Mulee said. He emphasized that the FKF Electoral Board operates autonomously and that all decisions are being made without external influence.
Conducting the Elections: Role of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC)
To further allay fears of bias, Mulee confirmed that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) or another independent body would be tasked with overseeing the FKF elections. The involvement of a respected, neutral organization like the IEBC is expected to boost confidence in the process and ensure that the elections are conducted fairly.
“The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission or another independent body will carry out the electoral process. This will ensure that the elections are conducted with full transparency,” Mulee said.
Location of the Electoral Board: Why Kandanda House?
Another concern raised by the candidates was the location of the FKF Electoral Board. The board operates from Kandanda House, the FKF headquarters, which some candidates argued could lead to undue influence or bias in the process.
Mulee addressed this concern by explaining that the electoral code specifically states that the board shall operate from Kandanda House or another location as decided by the board. He also mentioned that the venue had been approved at a Special General Meeting (SGM), meaning that any changes would need to be addressed through the proper legal channels.
“Our hands are tied. The electoral code clearly states that the board shall operate from Kandanda House, or wherever we decide. This was approved at the Special General Meeting,” Mulee explained. “Instead of complaining, my advice to anyone who is aggrieved is to seek to change the code in a legally constituted meeting.”
Looking Ahead: Ensuring a Fair and Transparent Election Process
With the FKF elections approaching, the concerns raised by the presidential candidates have certainly added to the pressure on the FKF Electoral Board. However, Mulee’s reassurances indicate that the board is committed to resolving all grievances and ensuring that the elections are conducted fairly.
The involvement of an independent electoral body such as the IEBC is expected to provide further confidence in the integrity of the process. As the candidates continue to voice their concerns, it remains critical for the FKF Electoral Board to maintain transparency and address each issue carefully to ensure a fair election.
A Path Forward for the FKF Elections
The Football Kenya Federation Electoral Board is under immense scrutiny as it navigates the concerns raised by presidential candidates. However, with promises of independence, transparency, and the involvement of neutral bodies like the IEBC, the board is determined to deliver a fair election process. As the election approaches, the focus will be on ensuring that the concerns raised are resolved, and the integrity of the process is upheld for the future of Kenyan football.
