FIFA has raised concerns over the increasing number of football-related disputes involving the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) being referred to ordinary courts in Kenya, warning that the practice could attract disciplinary measures.
In a letter dated October 5, 2026, addressed to FKF Acting General Secretary Dennis Gicheru, FIFA reminded the federation of its obligations under its statutes, which require member associations to manage their affairs independently and without undue interference from third parties.
FIFA expressed concern over the growing number of court proceedings involving FKF, its members and officials, particularly disputes relating to the organisation, administration and governance of football in the country.
The cases cited include disputes involving competitions, elections, membership, disciplinary decisions and other football-related matters.
The world football governing body drew attention to Article 69 of the FKF Constitution, which provides that football-related disputes should not be submitted to ordinary courts unless FIFA regulations, the federation’s constitution or binding legal provisions specifically allow such recourse.
The provision further establishes arbitration as the preferred dispute resolution mechanism, requiring disputes to be referred to an independent arbitration tribunal recognised by FKF or the Confederation of African Football (CAF), or to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland.
FIFA also cited Articles 14 and 19 of its statutes, which require member associations to operate independently and protect football from undue third-party influence.
The organisation warned that any breach of these principles could result in the matter being referred to its competent bodies for consideration of appropriate measures under the FIFA Statutes.
FIFA urged FKF to ensure football-related disputes are handled through established internal dispute resolution mechanisms and keep it informed of significant developments in the ongoing judicial proceedings.
The letter was also copied to CAF, placing the continental governing body on notice over the situation within Kenyan football.
