Allies of Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential candidates Doris Petra and Nick Mwendwa have solidified their dominance in the rescheduled county elections, winning two out of the three repeat polls held on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
In Mandera County, Ismael Mohammed Issack emerged victorious as FKF chairman, while in Turkana County, William Lokwee claimed the top spot. These wins bolster Team Blue’s grip on FKF’s grassroots leadership ahead of the federation’s national elections.
Nyandarua County, however, witnessed a contentious election marred by accusations of bribery and voter intimidation. Lucy Kageni, the running mate of former FKF CEO Barry Otieno, saw her ally claim victory in a heated race marked by interventions from Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha to defuse tensions. Reports indicate that promises of bursary allocations were allegedly used to sway votes in an election rerun triggered by a tie in the initial polls.
With Saturday’s results, Team Blue now commands 31 counties, with four additional counties leaning toward their side. This positions Petra and Mwendwa as frontrunners in their bid for the FKF presidency. Conversely, their rival, Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula, has secured only one confirmed county, with another hanging in the balance.
Hussein Mohammed, another contender, retains control of 14 counties, though his influence is reportedly waning, with undecided votes leaning toward Team Blue.
Petra and Mwendwa’s faction has demonstrated strength across key regions, including the North Rift, Coast, and Mount Kenya. In Mount Kenya, the bloc has captured Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi counties. Additionally, five Nyanza counties have aligned with their leadership bid, underscoring their widespread support.
As the FKF elections draw closer, the resounding victories for Petra and Mwendwa’s allies underscore their stronghold on the federation, despite lingering concerns over election malpractices.
