The world football body FIFA has suspended Kenya and Zimbabwe from all international football after the nation’s government interference in the activities of the football associations.
During the press conference, FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed.
“We had to suspend two of our member associations — Kenya and Zimbabwe. Both for government interference in the activities of the football associations of these associations,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said.
He said both the governments know what needs to be done for them to be readmitted or for their suspensions to be lifted.
In Kenya, the Ministry of Sports under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed suspended the Football Kenya Federation last year and appointed a caretaker committee that resumed soccer activities in the country. In Zimbabwe, the Football federation was also suspended by the Sports Recreation Commission (SRC) last year also.
The suspension decision was escalated by the government’s move to suspend Kenya Football Federation and replace it with a caretaker committee.
Kenya will not participate in all international football competitions including referees officiating the international matches like Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers, CECAFA, CAF Confederation Cup, or CAF Champions League.
Amina’s decision to disband the FKF committee, arrest of former FKF president Nick Mwendwa after disbandment and appointment of the caretaker committee has been billed as reasons for the ban.
The CS had been directed to reinstate the previous committee but she did not heed the directive.
