Gor Mahia Chairman Ambrose Rachier Clarifies Decision Not to Pursue FKF Presidential Office

Ambrose Rachier, the long-serving chairman of Gor Mahia, has definitively stated that he has no intention of running for the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential office in the upcoming elections scheduled for later this year. This decision comes despite his previous bid for the position in 2016, where he was defeated by the incumbent president, Nick Mwendwa.

Past Election and Current Challenges

In the 2016 FKF elections, Rachier was a notable contender but ultimately lost to Nick Mwendwa. Mwendwa’s tenure has been fraught with challenges, including significant legal issues and a one-year ban imposed by FIFA in 2021 due to governmental interference in football administration. Despite Mwendwa and his team being reinstated, questions regarding the legitimacy of his leadership persist.

Legal and Electoral Uncertainties

The FKF has faced continuous uncertainty, exacerbated by a recent court order in Mombasa that halted an Annual General Meeting intended to set new election dates. This legal action has added to the ongoing instability within the federation.

Rachier’s Vision for Kenyan Football

In a recent interview with KTN News, Rachier elaborated on his decision to abstain from the upcoming FKF elections and emphasized the need for significant reforms to revive Kenyan football. “I have no plans to run for office again in the forthcoming FKF elections, but we need to investigate and identify what steps we can make to ensure that our football returns to where it was in the previous century,” Rachier stated.

Rachier highlighted the importance of credible elections and effective leadership to restore the sport’s glory days. He also expressed concern over Kenya’s lack of recognition as a footballing nation, despite its strong reputation in rugby sevens.

Recognition and Talent Development

While commending the performance of the Emerging Stars at the COSAFA Cup in South Africa, Rachier stressed the need for more robust efforts to elevate Kenya’s football status. “We tried to do well at the COSAFA Cup but were unlucky. We need to do more to ensure we are portrayed as a football nation,” he said.

Rachier underscored the abundance of football talent in Kenya and the necessity for well-structured scouting and development programs. “We have loads of talent. Recently, I was with a player from the Rift Valley region who told me he wants to be among the best. We need to scout well and have sustainable structures in place set up by the leadership.”

A Call for Sustainable Leadership

As he prepares to step down from his long-standing role at Gor Mahia, Rachier’s focus remains on advocating for better leadership and development at the grassroots level. His comments reflect a deep concern for the future of Kenyan football and a desire to see it thrive under competent and visionary leadership.

Rachier’s perspective offers a sobering yet hopeful outlook on the potential for Kenyan football. By emphasizing the need for credible leadership and sustainable development structures, he provides a roadmap for the sport’s revival and long-term success in the country.

Conclusion

Ambrose Rachier’s decision not to pursue the FKF presidential office underscores his commitment to fostering a brighter future for Kenyan football through strategic leadership and grassroots development. His insights and advocacy highlight the critical steps needed to restore and elevate the sport’s status both locally and internationally. As Kenya looks towards the future, the principles and vision shared by Rachier will be essential in guiding the next phase of growth for football in the nation.