Kennedy Ouma Akelo has been elected as the new chairman of the Kisumu County Football Kenya Federation (FKF) after securing a decisive victory with 45 votes, defeating his main rival, Benjamin Oyugi, who received 24 votes, while a third candidate garnered 7 votes.
Following his win, Akelo called for unity to advance football in Kisumu, acknowledging that football standards in the region had declined.
“I urge everyone to come together so we can revitalize Kisumu football. To all our delegates, thank you for trusting in Team Ken. We won’t let you down,” Akelo stated.
The elections saw Maurice Mola Obungu elected as county treasurer with 44 votes, leaving George Odanga in second place with 26 votes and Nicholas Ochieng in third with 5 votes. Obungu outlined plans to improve financial transparency and reduce the participation fees from KSh 25,000 to KSh 10,000.
“We will ensure affiliation funds go directly to the bank, assisting teams facing financial challenges to advance to higher levels,” Obungu said, emphasizing collaboration with the Kisumu County government.
Emmalex Adhiambo Odera was elected as the women’s representative, capturing 36 votes against Margaret Awino’s 22 votes and Faith Akinyi’s 18. Odera expressed gratitude to the Kisumu football community, pledging to bolster women’s football in Kisumu, particularly at the grassroots.
“I’m thankful to the delegates for their trust. We’ll strengthen women’s leagues and promote football from the grassroots level to national, including partnerships with schools and community clubs,” Odera remarked.
John Aoko Odeyo claimed the county secretary role, earning 38 votes against James Chiaga’s 25 and Walter Ondiege’s 13. The new FKF leadership has pledged to foster inclusivity, transparency, and renewed vigor in football development within Kisumu County.
FKF Head of Communications Kenn Okaka, viewed as an ally of FKF President Nick Mutuku Mwendwa and Deputy Doris Petra, lauded the newly elected officials. He underscored the critical task of reshaping the football landscape in Kisumu.
“They are tasked with improving the face of football in the lake city,” Okaka said, urging the leadership to capitalize on the region’s potential and passion for the game.
The revamped FKF Kisumu County team is set to focus on boosting football from grassroots to elite levels, uniting stakeholders, and creating opportunities for players and clubs in the region. Akelo, aligned with the Blue faction led by Deputy FKF President Doris Petra, expressed confidence that Kisumu football will bounce back better and stronger than ever.
“Our vision is clear: to make Kisumu a football powerhouse,” Akelo concluded, setting the stage for a new era of footballing excellence in the region.
