The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is set to conduct its upcoming elections under an amended elections code, a move that is expected to bring significant changes to the electoral process. This decision follows a unanimous agreement reached by delegates during a Special General Meeting held on Saturday. The amendment, which was spearheaded by Tusker Chairman Charles Gacheru, was introduced with the aim of enhancing transparency and inclusivity in the elections, ensuring that the process is fair and accessible to all eligible candidates.
One of the most significant changes in the amended elections code is the revision of Section 4.2, which outlines the eligibility criteria for candidates vying for FKF elective positions. This section had been a point of contention in previous elections, with many stakeholders arguing that the existing criteria were too restrictive and did not provide a level playing field for all candidates. The amendment has now opened up the window for more candidates to participate in the elections, a move that has been widely welcomed by the football community in Kenya.
The amended code replaces the Electoral Code of Football Kenya Federation 2019/2020, which had been earmarked for use in the upcoming polls. The 2019/2020 code was found to be selective and lacking in key areas that are crucial for ensuring openness and transparency in the electoral process. By addressing these issues, the new code aims to create a more inclusive environment where all eligible candidates have an equal opportunity to contest in the elections.
Gacheru, who has been a vocal advocate for changes in the electoral process, referred to the revisions as “hygiene changes.” These changes are designed to remove any selective clauses that could potentially hinder fair competition among candidates. One of the key revisions is the alteration of the required years of active football participation for candidates. Previously, the code required candidates to have participated in active football for three out of the last five years. However, this requirement has now been reduced to two out of the last five years, based on recommendations made by the previous FKF Electoral Board.
This change in the eligibility criteria is seen as a significant step towards making the elections more inclusive. By reducing the number of years required for active participation, the amendment allows a broader range of candidates to participate, thus increasing the competitiveness of the elections. The decision to reduce the requirement was influenced by the FKF Electoral Board’s recommendations, which were formulated on August 11, 2020, and were deemed acceptable by the Sports Dispute Tribunal.
The importance of this amendment cannot be overstated. The electoral process in any sports organization plays a crucial role in determining the future direction of the organization. By ensuring that the process is fair, transparent, and inclusive, the FKF is taking a significant step towards building a stronger and more unified football community in Kenya. The changes to the elections code are expected to encourage more candidates to come forward, bringing fresh ideas and perspectives that can help drive the development of football in the country.
In addition to the changes in the eligibility criteria, the amended code also addresses other key issues that were identified as potential obstacles to a fair electoral process. These include the removal of selective clauses that could have been used to disqualify certain candidates, as well as the introduction of more rigorous guidelines for the conduct of the elections. By addressing these issues, the FKF is working to ensure that the elections are conducted in a manner that is consistent with the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.
The upcoming elections will be closely watched by stakeholders in the Kenyan football community, as well as by observers from the wider sports world. The changes to the elections code are expected to set a new standard for how sports organizations in Kenya conduct their elections, and could serve as a model for other organizations looking to improve their own electoral processes.
As the FKF prepares for the upcoming elections, it is clear that the amendments to the elections code represent a significant step forward. By making the process more inclusive and transparent, the FKF is laying the groundwork for a more competitive and vibrant football community in Kenya. The changes to the code are a testament to the organization’s commitment to fairness and accountability, and will play a crucial role in shaping the future of football in the country.
In conclusion, the decision to implement the amended elections code is a positive development for the Football Kenya Federation and the broader football community in Kenya. The changes to the code will help ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a fair, transparent, and inclusive manner, allowing all eligible candidates to participate on an equal footing. As the elections approach, the FKF’s commitment to these principles will be put to the test, but the organization appears well-prepared to meet the challenge. The future of Kenyan football looks bright, and the amended elections code will play a key role in helping to shape that future
