Kiminini Constituency lawmaker Kakai Bissau has raised concerns over the continued governance dispute at the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and outstanding payments for the national team Harambee Stars.
In a statement presented before the National Assembly on October 7, 2026, Kakai sought answers on the cause and nature of the dispute within the FKF, the measures underway to resolve it, and the amount of money owed to Harambee Stars.
He also sought clarification on the nature of the outstanding payments, the reasons for the delays, and the timeline for settling the dues.
According to him, the leadership crisis has paralysed football operations and the commencement of the league in the country, creating a worrying atmosphere regarding the federation’s ability to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Championship.
“The reported dispute has disrupted its operations and reportedly delayed the commencement of the 2026/2027 Premier League season. These disputes have also raised concerns regarding the ability of the FKF to shepherd the preparedness of the country’s national team to compete in the 2027 AFCON,” Kakai stated.
Coach Benni McCarthy’s work permits, technical team payments issues
The statement further sought to understand the status of the work permits and outstanding payments for Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy and his technical team, and whether the ongoing disputes affect the country’s preparedness to co-host and compete in the AFCON.
Additionally, he inquired about the status of football leagues in the country, including the timeline for their commencement and clarification on whether the leagues will be governed by the FKF 2019 Regulations or the 2025 Regulations.
“The situation risks undermining the players’ welfare and morale, disrupting football development, and affecting the country’s preparations for upcoming international competitions,” he noted.
Effect of league delays on club owners
As a club owner, the vocal lawmaker decried the financial burden that the delays in the start of the leagues have plunged club owners into, from players’ salaries to upkeep, as well as teams’ preparations for the specific leagues they participate in.
“Club owners continue to suffer heavy financial responsibilities. The cost of players’ upkeep, salaries, and preparedness in preparation for the league continue to be incurred without a definite league commencement date,” Kakai decried.
Speaker Wetang’ula unimpressed by Harambee Stars’ performance
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula also revealed that he had followed the Harambee Stars-Eritrea fixture and was not impressed by what he saw, particularly when compared with the national team’s performances during the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The statement comes as members of parliament summon Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya over the Harambee Stars’ outstanding payments, the FKF crisis, and the 2027 AFCON preparations.
Discussion about this post