With AFC Leopards SC set for a crucial Annual General Meeting (AGM) this Saturday, anticipation is high amid internal divisions and a simmering power struggle within the club.   

A fractured leadership, coupled with an increasingly frustrated fan base, presents a volatile mix. With the AGM taking place just 24 hours before the long-awaited 94th edition of the twice-postponed Mashemeji Derby, all eyes will be on Chairman Dr. Dan Shikanda, who is reportedly facing internal rebellion.   

Over the past few months, the club has held discussions and meetings focused on commercializing and privatizing AFC Leopards to ensure long-term sustainability. However, deep-seated mistrust and misgivings have threatened to derail the process.   

Allegations of wanton financial mismanagement and corruption have led fans to demand greater accountability. Several branches support the idea of corporatization, with analysts echoing their sentiments. It remains to be seen whether the upcoming AGM will address these concerns comprehensively or if they will be relegated to a mere footnote on the agenda.   

In 2024, the Leopards Executive Committee, led by Dan Shikanda, engaged with the top leadership of Tanzanian giants Yanga Sports Club to explore strategies for making the club financially viable. 

AFC Leopards has long struggled to leverage its popularity for financial gain, missing opportunities in key revenue streams such as ticketing, merchandising, and social media marketing.   

Recently, the club commissioned a Corporate Taskforce Committee – led by Vincent Shimoli – to conduct research and provide recommendations on ensuring the club’s success both on and off the pitch. These recommendations were formulated after extensive member engagement, civic education, case studies, and a thorough analysis of AFC Leopards’ unique social, economic, and governance landscape within Kenyan football.   

At the same time, a key branch leader has hinted at a major structural shift, indicating that AFC Leopards may soon have a Chief Executive Officer to oversee club operations, replacing the current chairperson-led system.   

According to chairman of the U45 branch and a leading proponent of transforming the club into Leopards Company Limited Olympia Musonye, the CEO would be appointed by a board of directors comprising representatives from both fans and investors.   

“This SACCO shall have five directors elected by fans, and then the investor will have four directors. The nine directors will come together to elect a CEO to oversee the Leopards Limited Company. The investors will have four directors since they will be holding 49 per cent of the ownership, while Fans’ Sacco will have five directors because they will be holding 51 per cent,” said Musonye.