For the first time in its history, the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) has failed to conduct elections twice within two months due to internal disputes.

The initial polls scheduled for April 24, 2025, were abandoned after disagreements over which federation representatives were eligible to vote. When elections were rescheduled for Thursday, June 19, 2025, court cases again derailed the process, plunging the organisation into chaos.

This crisis threatens to undermine NOC-K’s hard-earned credibility.

Over eight years, the organisation rebuilt stakeholder confidence following the damaging Rio Olympics scandal of 2016.

Outgoing president Paul Tergat must ensure these wrangles don’t tarnish his legacy.

The current impasse risks serious consequences. The International Olympic Committee could impose sanctions for prolonged internal disputes, potentially affecting Kenya’s participation in major events like the 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Such sanctions would devastate Kenyan athletes who depend on international competition opportunities.

A solution exists in the Football Kenya Federation’s recent success. Its electoral board delivered free, fair elections within six months, providing a blueprint for NOC-K.

To move forward, all court cases must be dropped, allowing all candidates on the ballot, and permitting only federation chairmen to vote or nominate representatives.

This inclusive approach serves multiple purposes. Court cases consume valuable resources that could support athlete development and training infrastructure.

Prolonged disputes create hostile environments in the sports community, while excessive legal intervention undermines sports organisations’ autonomy under the Olympic Charter.

Democratic legitimacy requires allowing all qualified candidates to contest. Excluding candidates on technicalities fuels grievances and legal challenges.

An inclusive process reduces intervention incentives and builds confidence in electoral outcomes.

Athletes suffer most from leadership instability. Training programmes face disruption, and international competition preparations suffer. Dropping court cases represents pragmatic leadership prioritising athletes over politics.

This approach offers the best chance to restore NOC-K’s credibility and secure Kenya’s Olympic future.