The process of electing officials of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) will climax on December 7 with the national elections. Ahead of the big day, county nomination papers for different positions were submitted at the weekend.
The process intensifies today as aspirants for slots on the National Executive Committee and for president present theirs ahead of the official start of campaigns.
Members of the FKF Electoral Board must be well prepared for this key part of the polling process and should not be rigid. Even though the board is guided by the electoral code, the FKF constitution, and the Sports Act, board members should be flexible and help aspirants, where need be, to comply with the rules and enable as many of them as possible to make it to the ballot.
Instantly barring an aspirant from participating in the polls because they are unable to provide a required document in the checklist would be unfair.
Aspirants seeking elective positions must also stop using courts to delay the process, as this may be termed third-party interference and result in sanctions from the world football governing body Fifa.
The government must also steer away from the elections to allow the process to be free and fair, as there have been claims that some aspirants were boasting that they are government projects.
Credible, all-inclusive football elections are essential for the health and development of the sport. They ensure that the people leading football organisations are representative of the diverse community they serve and that they are committed to upholding the integrity of the game.
Such elections also enhance the trust and legitimacy of football organisations. When people believe that the leadership is fair and representative, they are more likely to support and participate in the sport.
It also contributes to the long-term sustainability of football. By fostering trust and legitimacy, they help to create a stable and supportive environment for the growth of the sport.
The elections board should ensure high voter turnout from the county level for the elections to be seen to be legitimate. Efforts should be made to encourage participation, especially among marginalised groups.
Establishing fair campaign rules and monitoring compliance can help to prevent unethical practices and ensure a level playing field for all candidates.
The electoral board is essential for ensuring the elections are credible. They should be free from undue influence and have the necessary resources to conduct a fair and transparent process.