Tributes continued to pour in yesterday, a day after former Football Kenya Limited (FKL) chairman Mohammed Hatimy was laid to rest at the Kikowani cemetery.

Hatimy, who was by the time of his death the Mombasa County Orange Democratic Movement chairman, succumbed to coronavirus on Friday night at the Mombasa Hospital.

Leaders from different spheres described him as a steadfast administrator who ensured that he always achieved his goals.

Former Prime Minister and ODM Party leader Raila Odinga said: “I’ve received with sadness news of the passing of long-serving ODM party Mombasa County chairman Mohamed Hatimy.

He was a dedicated leader in the realms of politics, sports, and business. May God grant his family strength at this difficult moment and may his soul rest in peace”

FKF president Nick Mwendwa said Hatimy’s death was a great loss to the sport as he is remembered for many gains.

“It is with great sadness that I am compelled to deliver this message of condolence and tribute to a great man who promoted football in Kenya as an administrator,” Mwendwa said just before boarding a chartered flight with Harambee Stars to Comoros for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Sofapaka president Elly Kalekwa said: “Hatimy was a good and strong leader who promoted football in the country in different capacities.

He was a dedicated leader who worked tirelessly to put Kenyan football in the global and continental map.”

Hatimy became FKL chairman in 2006 after replacing suspended chairman Alfred Sambu and held the position until 2011 when he decided not to defend his position and Sam Nyamweya won the polls.

As the senior vice-chairman in the federation in 2006, he differed with chairman Alfred Sambu who wanted to increase the number of participating teams in the top league, to save AFC Leopards from relegation after Ingwe had finished the league second last. 

The disagreement in the federation ended up at Fifa, where a nod to suspend Sambu was given.