MPs call for normalisation committee to ‘save football’

The MPs say the normalisation committee will help to resolve governance disputes disrupting the sport in the country.

​The call was made by Kiminini Member of Parliament Kaikai Bissau, who requested a statement from the chairperson of the departmental committee on sports and culture regarding the growing leadership, budget and regulatory crises within the federation.

"I rise to request for a statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture regarding the Governance disputes within the Football Kenya Federation and outstanding payments to Harambee Stars", Bissau stated.

​The governance disputes within the FKF have led to a severe breakdown in operations, effectively delaying the kick-off of the 2026–2027 Kenya Premier League season.

Bissau highlighted the severe financial strain placed on club owners due to the indefinite delay.

"The cost of players' upkeep, salaries, preparedness and preparation of the league continues to be incurred without definite league commencement date."

"The governance disputes have affected the commencement of football leagues as club owners continue to serve a heavy financial responsibility, including my own club community combined, Bazoo Boys, where I'm the patron".

​Beyond the domestic league, the parliamentary inquiry targets administrative failures affecting the national team, Harambee Stars. 

Bissau raised serious concerns over unpaid allowances to national team players and the pending work permits for Harambee Stars head coach Bennie McCarthy and his technical team.

“The situation risks undermining players' welfare and morale, disrupting football development and affecting the country's preparations for the upcoming international competitions," he warned.

​Acknowledging FIFA's strict stance on third-party interference, Bissau proposed a FIFA-sanctioned pathway to reset the federation.

"Notably, according to the FIFA rules, while government interference is prohibited, a Normalisation Committee can be formed to address the current and destructive tendencies," Bissau explained.

​The Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture has now been tasked with providing clear answers on the exact nature and cost of the FKF governance disputes, official timelines for the league commencement and outstanding amounts owed to Harambee Stars players.

The other issue is the status of coach Bennie McCarthy’s work permit, and measures being taken to ensure that these disputes do not undermine the country's preparedness to co-host and compete in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.