Amidst the recent buzz surrounding the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential race, allegations have surfaced online suggesting clandestine negotiations between Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino, a notable aspirant, and his close contender, Extreme Sports Chief Executive Hussein Mohammed.
Fake Speculations hined at a potential collaboration aimed at toppling the incumbent FKF president, Nick Mwendwa, ahead of the upcoming elections later this year.
The conjecture gained traction after Kempes and Mohammed were spotted together during an FKF Premier League clash between Gor Mahia and Bandari in Mombasa.
Alongside them were prominent football figures such as Bandari FC Vice Chairman Twaha Mbarak, Gor Mahia Secretary Sam Ocholla, and former FKF Vice Chairman Sammy Shollei, adding fuel to the speculative fire.
However, Kempes swiftly refuted these claims, vehemently denying any plans of collaboration. He labeled such rumors as baseless fabrications and reiterated his sole focus on clinching the FKF presidency.
Speaking from his position overseeing a 32-acre football academy in Texas, USA, Kempes clarified that his attendance at the game was due to an invitation from the Twaha Invitation committee.
Addressing the apparent coincidence of encountering Mohammed, Kempes emphasized their presence as unrelated to any political agendas.
“We were there for our campaign efforts, the Twaha Invitation, and to watch Gor Mahia and Bandari. We had no idea Hussein had also been invited. We are not interested in joining forces with anybody. Our goal is to win this election and build Kenyan football,” Kempes stated adamantly.
Kempes, boasting an illustrious legacy including leading Gor Mahia to the final of the cup winner in 1979, stands firm in his bid for the FKF presidency.
Supported by influential figures within the country, he champions the cause of rejuvenating Kenyan football to its former glory.
His candidacy is bolstered by a wealth of experience as a player, coach, and administrator, positioning him as a formidable candidate capable of steering the sport toward a brighter future.
Reflecting on his journey while launching his presidential bid, Kempes expressed his deep-seated love for the game and acknowledged its transformative potential.
He envisions Kenyan football as a beacon of opportunity, aiming to provide equal footing for grassroots development, coaching education, youth empowerment, and infrastructure enhancement.