New NOC-K chief Maluki calls for new order among federations, 'athletes first' approach

Newly elected National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) President Shadrack Maluki has wasted no time in stamping his authority, delivering a bold and unapologetic message to federations following his narrow victory over Francis Mutuku.

 Speaking moments after being declared the winner, Maluki said his administration would not tolerate self-interest or non-cooperation within federations, calling on all stakeholders to prioritize athletes above personal gain.

“Interests was coming first before the athlete. It’s time to shape up or ship out, it’s either you work for the athletes or you exit the federation.” said Maluki, who previously served as First Deputy President. “We cannot allow a few individuals to derail our mission. The athlete must always come first.”

His remarks set the tone for a new chapter in NOC-K leadership, one that he promises will be guided by ‘accountability’, ‘unity’, and ‘performance’.

“This election for sure has divided us federations and it’s my task to bring everyone together and you well know we are late in preparing for the Los Angeles Olympics. We need everyone on board to ensure we are on course to develop our sports.”

 He also acknowledged outgoing President Paul Tergat, commending him for his stewardship and pledging to build on the foundation laid over the past term.

Tergat, in his farewell, hailed the peaceful process and expressed optimism in the new leadership.

“I leave this committee in a better place and with full confidence that the next team will carry the vision forward,” he said.

The election, held under the watchful eye of IEBC’s Chief Returning Officer Muthee Gakuru, saw a 100 percent voter turnout, with all 27 eligible delegates casting their ballots. However, the results delivered several upsets, most notably the defeat of Kenya Rugby Union’s Humphrey Khayange, who lost the Deputy Secretary General position by a single vote,13 to Francis Njeru Karugu’s 14.

To the surprise of many, Alexander ’Sasha’ Kiplagat Mutai secured the Executive Committee member slots alongside Joycelene Nyamboru (triathlon) and Suleiman Sumba (taekwondo) leaving seasoned contenders like Gakuo Ndirangu, Purvin Ramesh Rawal, and Ndiritu Gikaria out in the cold.

Eliud Kipchoge was elected unopposed as the Male Athlete Representative, while John Ogola also sailed through unchallenged to become the new Secretary General. Fred Kamau Chege clinched the Treasurer position. In a tightly contested race for the Second Deputy President slot, Nahashon Randiek (Hockey) narrowly edged out Eliud Kariuki with a 14–13 vote margin.

Meanwhile, in the Women's Athlete Representative Contest, KCB women's volleyball captain Edith Wissa fell short by just three votes, losing to Kenya Lionesses star Grace Akulu Odhiambo.

With the new team in place, all eyes now turn to implementation, especially on presenting a solid team for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.