Kenyan football has been abuzz following the high-profile transfer of Harambee Stars defender Alphonce Omija to Tunisian giants Étoile Sportive du Sahel. While the move has been celebrated as a major career milestone for the 22-year-old, questions surrounding the role of Gor Mahia Vice President Sally Bolo have stirred heated debate among fans.
Bolo, who also serves as Director of Salient Sports Management Limited, finally addressed the matter to clarify her position. Concerns had been raised over whether her involvement in player management created a conflict of interest in Omija’s move.
In her statement, Bolo emphasized that her dual roles do not violate any football regulations. She explained that there are no legal or regulatory restrictions preventing an individual from serving in football leadership while also running a private sports management company, provided the two entities do not engage in direct business. She further stressed that Salient Sports Management has never conducted any dealings with Gor Mahia since her election as Vice President in April 2025.
To underline her commitment to transparency, Bolo reiterated that she consistently adheres to FIFA’s Code of Ethics, FIFA Governance Regulations, and the FKF Constitution. She assured fans that she will always recuse herself from discussions or decisions at Gor Mahia that could potentially involve her private company. Her priority, she maintained, is safeguarding good governance at the club while fostering the growth of Kenyan football.
The Omija transfer itself has been hailed as a significant breakthrough. The young defender caught the eye during the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN), where his commanding performances, including a decisive goal against Madagascar in the quarterfinals, showcased his potential on the continental stage. His move to Tunisia now places him in one of Africa’s top leagues, a platform that could propel him to even greater heights.
For Gor Mahia fans and Kenyan football followers at large, the deal represents both pride and curiosity. While many celebrate Omija’s rise, lingering questions about governance in the local game highlight the delicate balance between football administration and private enterprise. As Omija begins a new chapter abroad, the focus now shifts from boardroom debates to his performance on the pitch, where he is expected to cement his reputation as one of Kenya’s brightest defensive talents.
