The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has distanced itself from reports suggesting that it is responsible for paying the salary of Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy. The clarification comes amid growing speculation about how the former South African international’s wages are being handled, following statements from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
SRC Dismisses FKF’s Claims on McCarthy’s Salary
McCarthy was officially unveiled as the new Harambee Stars head coach on Monday, March 3, taking over from interim coach Francis Kimanzi. His appointment has generated a lot of discussion, particularly regarding his salary, which was reported to be over Ksh8 million per month. FKF initially stated that the government was covering McCarthy’s wages in accordance with SRC guidelines.
However, in an unexpected turn, the SRC refuted these claims, stating that it has no involvement in paying national team coaches. Speaking to Nation.Africa, an SRC source categorically denied any arrangement that would place McCarthy’s salary under their jurisdiction.
“I’ve checked, and no such arrangement exists. The SRC has never been involved in paying national team coaches as civil servants. If this were done for Harambee Stars, other federations would demand the same,” an SRC official explained.
The official further clarified that if McCarthy’s salary is being paid through government funds, it would have to be through FKF or the Ministry of Sports, not the SRC.
FKF’s Position on the Salary Dispute
FKF Head of Communications, Jeff Kinyanjui, previously attempted to clarify McCarthy’s salary structure, stating that the coach’s wages were being handled by the government.
“There have been false reports suggesting that Benni McCarthy will be earning Ksh8 million per month. This is not accurate,” Kinyanjui posted.
He added, “The coach’s salary is paid by the government and adheres to SRC guidelines. Even the entire technical bench does not earn such an amount collectively.”
Kinyanjui also urged the media to be responsible in their reporting, emphasizing that misinformation could mislead fans and distract them from supporting the national team.
“Let’s focus on the facts and support the team constructively,” he stated.
Possible Salary Payment Sources
With the SRC officially denying involvement in paying McCarthy’s salary, all eyes are now on FKF and the Ministry of Sports to provide clarity. If FKF is indeed funding part of McCarthy’s wages, it would not be the first time that the national federation has had to cover expenses for national team coaches due to government delays or lack of funding.
At the same time, it remains unclear if McCarthy’s contract includes sponsorships or external financial backing, as has been the case in the past with certain national team coaches across Africa.
McCarthy Focuses on Coaching Despite the Controversy
Despite the off-pitch distractions regarding his salary, McCarthy has quickly settled into his new role as Harambee Stars coach. The former Bafana Bafana striker has been actively involved in scouting local talent and assessing players ahead of Kenya’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.
McCarthy recently attended an FKF Premier League match between Gor Mahia and Kariobangi Sharks, where he was joined by FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga, former interim coach Francis Kimanzi, and Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba. His presence at the match was seen as a positive step in familiarizing himself with Kenya’s top local players.
What Next for FKF and McCarthy?
With the SRC making it clear that it has no role in paying McCarthy’s salary, FKF and the Ministry of Sports will likely have to provide further clarification on the matter. Whether McCarthy’s wages are coming entirely from FKF or partially from government funding remains to be confirmed.
For now, the focus remains on preparing the national team for upcoming fixtures, but the ongoing salary controversy could create further distractions if not addressed soon. Fans and stakeholders will be keen to see how FKF navigates this situation while ensuring that McCarthy has the full support needed to lead Harambee Stars to success.
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