Sports CS Murkomen challenges AK to hold presidential elections

Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Development Kipchumba Murkomen challenged Athletics Kenya (AK) on Wednesday to lead the way in its presidential election campaigns.

In a statement by the Principal Secretary (PS) for Sports Peter Tum, on behalf of the CS at AK’s 2025 calendar reveal, Murkomen praised the athletics federation for the world-beating talent they’ve nurtured for decades.

However, in line with the push to revitalize sports in the country, CS Murkomen also encouraged the federation to set an example in their upcoming presidential elections.

“While I congratulate you on your consistent launch of the calendar of events over the years and for your good work in developing our athletes, I must now challenge you to lead and show the way in elections.”

While commending AK’s efforts to produce event calendars each year, the CS also stressed the importance of the federation completing its auditing reports.

The recent World Under 20 World Championships in Peru and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris audits were specifically mentioned and dubbed crucial for the planning of future events.

The federation was thus prompted to complete them as soon as possible.

“For any organization's continuous improvement, auditing performance is key. Reports for u20 world championships and Paris Olympics are therefore critical in helping us to prepare better for future tournaments.”

CS Murkomen went on to say that the country is punching “far below [their] weight” in sending athletes to the Olympics, which the PS briefly went off-script to express his agreement to the premise.

Only six events had Kenyan representation in Paris, and the sports ministry sees that as an area for improvement.

“We are currently punching far below our weight – and I agree with that message. The six disciplines we took to Paris are far below what we’re capable of”, PS Tum said.”

“We must expand our sports portfolio to increase our global competition and participation and solidify our reputation as a sporting powerhouse.”

After his stern remarks to the leadership of AK, he turned his attention to coaches and athletes around the country and urged them to “keep their eyes on the ball, be steadfast and relentless in the journey for greatness.”