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Barry Silah and Fred Likuyani

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential hopeful Nicholas Musonye wants changes to the electoral code so fairness could be realised.

The former Council for East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) secretary general, who declared his interest in the top seat last week, warned that without such changes, there will be no level playing field. 

“In every fair contest, we must have rules that all people agree on. This is necessary so that one wins fairly or loses honourably and this should be the dictates of democracy.

I would insist on changes around the eligibility clause and authenticity of delegates to vote so that we are comfortable going in,” Musonye told People Sport at the weekend.

Musonye, who ran CECAFA for 21 years, suggests the reason for the many court dramas witnessed recently with regards to the contested elections is greed and a desire to lock out others from football management. 

“If we are fair, then such issues will not occur and therefore we will insist as contenders that rules have to be amended and followed to the letter by independent observers. Football is big enough for all of us and indeed not one person has the answers,” he added.

“I have the experience but also the goodwill. If I am chosen, my priority will be to bring back hope to the game. Kenya is lagging behind and this is totally unacceptable so we need change,” said Musonye. 

Meanwhile, Musonye’s declaration that he will be gunning for the top seat has excited a section of football stakeholders from western Kenya.

Former AFC Leopards chairman Mathews Opwora, Kakamega Homeboyz boss Cleophas Shimanyula and ex-Kakamega Senator Bony Khalwale are among those who have welcomed Musonye’s decision, terming him the best bet to restore confidence among key players in the sector.

“Management of football should be handed over to suitable individuals who have passion and vast experience and not jokers who come in to further their selfish interests while exposing players to suffering,” said Opwora. 

Shimanyula, a fierce critic of incumbent Nick Mwendwa said: “This is the right moment for the ailing Kenyan football to be restored and delivered from selfish leaders who have spent the last four years doing nothing and have refused to listen to other partners.” 

Musonye joins Mwendwa, former FKF boss Sam Nyamweya, Gor Mahia CEO Lodvick Aduda and Ex-FKF National Executive Committee Member Fahim Twaha for the top seat race.