The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is calling for key amendments to Kenya’s sports governance framework, chief among them being the extension of term limits for its elected officials. This proposal comes as a national task force embarks on a review of the country’s sports policy, legal, and institutional framework a move aimed at strengthening sports management and oversight in the country.
Currently, FKF officials serve four-year terms. The federation is proposing an extension to five years, aligning their tenure with that of the national government. According to the federation’s leadership, this change would provide more time for implementation of long-term projects and the realization of development goals within Kenyan football.
Alongside the push for longer terms, FKF is also advocating for structural reforms within the country’s football ecosystem. A central proposal is to allow football clubs to register as limited companies. The federation argues that this shift would enable clubs to access a wider range of financial benefits, such as issuing shares and participating in the Nairobi Stock Exchange. This, they claim, could transform football into a more commercially viable and professionally run sector.
Another key recommendation involves reforming the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT). The federation is pushing for the SDT to act not only as an appellate body but also as a court of first instance. They believe this change would help streamline dispute resolution in Kenyan sports, reducing procedural delays and enhancing accountability.
However, these proposals come at a time when internal discontent is surfacing within the FKF. A section of stakeholders has raised questions about the federation’s current leadership and its commitment to reform. One prominent figure who supported the current administration’s rise has voiced disappointment with its performance, citing a lack of transparency, financial discipline, and institutional development.
Critics argue that while the FKF leadership campaigned on a platform of renewal and integrity, it has yet to deliver meaningful change. Concerns over the slow pace of reforms and failure to meet expectations have fueled skepticism about the motives behind the proposed term extension. Some view it as an attempt to entrench power rather than a genuine effort to improve governance.
As the task force continues to gather views from stakeholders across the sports landscape, the FKF’s proposals are likely to spark a wider debate about the direction and future of football governance in Kenya. With mounting calls for transparency, professionalism, and accountability, the spotlight is now firmly on FKF leadership to demonstrate that their reform agenda is driven by the best interests of the sport.
