News Focus
- FIFA declares suspension of FKF President Hussein Mohammed invalid due to procedural breaches
- World governing body cites violations of Article 41 of the 2017 FKF Constitution
- NEC members warned they face potential disciplinary action for constitutional violations
- FKF confirms receipt of FIFA letter and pledges adherence to statutory frameworks
- Federation promises continued cooperation with FIFA and CAF to protect domestic football
FIFA has blocked the attempt to suspend Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed. The world football body ruled that the National Executive Committee (NEC) did not follow proper legal steps when trying to remove him from office.
The decision came in a letter dated May 25, sent by FIFA’s Chief Member Associations Officer, Elkhan Mammadov. The letter addressed NEC members directly and cancelled their decisions to suspend Mohammed, Acting Secretary General Dennis Gicheru, and nominated member Abdulahi Yusuf Ibrahim.
FIFA had asked the NEC to prove their actions followed the federation’s rules. However, the committee did not respond properly. The documents they provided failed to show that basic legal requirements were met.
Mammadov stated that FIFA completely rejects the procedure used. He explained that actions taken outside the official rules have no legal power within the association.
The global body pointed to Article 41 of the 2017 FKF Constitution. This article explains how elected officials can be removed. FIFA listed several requirements for a valid suspension.
First, the suspension must be properly proposed with clear reasons. Second, it must appear on the official agenda, and all NEC members must receive notice beforehand. Third, the meeting must have enough members present and follow voting rules. Finally, the accused official must have the right to defend themselves before any decision.
FIFA stressed that these rules are mandatory. They protect legal rights and institutional integrity. Special circumstances cannot bypass the constitution.
FIFA stated it will not recognise any leadership changes made outside these legal rules. The body also warned against outside interference. Under FIFA’s independence rules, actions by local courts or government ministries could seriously damage Kenyan football.
The letter warned that individuals who break the rules risk serious consequences. This includes possible disciplinary action from football’s judicial bodies.
Following FIFA’s instructions, FKF released a statement confirming receipt of the letter. The federation stressed that it remains fully operational. They promised to handle the situation through proper legal channels while maintaining institutional stability.
FKF welcomed FIFA’s guidance. They pledged to work with both FIFA and CAF to protect football in Kenya. They also promised to ensure national team programmes continue without problems.
With FIFA firmly rejecting the suspension attempt, the NEC faction must now follow constitutional procedures or face punishment from the sport’s governing bodies.