This archive report was first published on 22 July 2019.
July 22, 2019, marked a significant day in the football world, as allegations of favoritism rocked the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). The Kenya Football Welfare Association (KEFWA) has castigated FKF CEO Robert Muthomi for taking a personal interest in the case of Harambee Stars player John Avire, while ignoring hundreds of other employment-related disputes presented to the FKF desk.
KEFWA Secretary General had personally presented 10 urgent cases to FKF CEO Muthomi in August 2017, with promises of action, but two years later, no progress was made. The association is now questioning why Avire's case received special attention, while others were left to languish.
The controversy began when FKF CEO Muthomi allegedly tried to sell Avire to an Egyptian club behind Sofapaka's back. A letter, claimed to have been signed by Muthomi, was sent to the Egyptian Embassy, seeking a visa for Avire to watch the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. Sofapaka was outraged, and a protest letter was written to FKF President Nick Mwendwa.
FKF has admitted to receiving the complaint and promised to investigate, leading to CEO Muthomi stepping aside. In his place, FKF Communication Manager Barry Otieno will take over as acting CEO.
KEFWA is now calling for answers, asking why only Avire's case was prioritized and what about the hundreds of other players whose cases are still pending.
