The Kitui High Court has lifted its injunction on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) branch elections after weeks of uncertainty and legal wrangling, clearing the way for the polls to proceed on November 14, 2024.
The ruling, delivered by Hon. Justice Robert Limo on Tuesday, marks a significant step forward for the long-delayed electoral process.
The injunction had initially paused the elections, originally scheduled for November 9, after the Kenya Football Association filed a petition, challenging the legitimacy of FKF to conduct the polls. The court’s decision, however, noted that a similar case was already pending at the Milimani Law Courts, leading to the dismissal of the Kitui petition to avoid duplicating judicial efforts.
“The petition is substantially similar to the Milimani petition; therefore, we stay the petition,” ruled Justice Limo, enabling the FKF Electoral Board to resume its preparations for the upcoming vote.
In response to the ruling, the FKF Electoral Board swiftly announced November 14 as the new date for the branch elections. The board urged all personnel to be prepared, directing them to their respective stations by November 13 to ensure the smooth operation of Election Day.
“We are pleased to inform you that the stay orders have been lifted,” read a statement signed by Board Chairman Hesbon Owilla and Secretary Marcelinne Sande. “The Football Kenya Federation elections will now take place on 14th November 2024. You are required to be at your assigned stations by 13th November to ensure everything is set up and ready.”
The branch elections are not just an isolated event; they will set the stage for the national FKF elections scheduled for December 7. This final round will culminate in the election of the next FKF president, bringing an end to months of legal standoffs and uncertainties surrounding Kenya’s football governance.
With the path now clear for November 14, anticipation builds as the FKF Electoral Board and stakeholders prepare for what could be a defining moment in Kenya’s football future.
