Kenya’s national men’s football team Harambee Stars has clarified remarks made against outgoing Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Chief Executive Officer Barry Otieno, which criticized the former CEO.
Harambee Stars on Wednesday October 9, 2024, distanced itself from the remarks made in a post made earlier this morning on its official X handle, which criticized Otieno.
The post seen by The Kenya Times labelled the ex-CEO as a “bully” and “liar per excellence”.
It had emanated after Otieno on Thursday announced about his resignation in a letter dated addressed to the FKF President Nick Mwendwa, delegates and staff.
However, Harambee stars has distanced itself from the post saying that it does not align with its views.
The national men’s football team further said that it has taken immediate action and updated the account’s login credentials.
“The recent post shared from this account does not align with our views. We have taken immediate action and updated the login credentials.
Thank you for your understanding,” the statement reads.
Harambee Stars makes clarification after CEO resigns
Harambee stars was forced to make the clarification hours after Barry Otieno announced his resignation as FKF CEO.
In his letter, Otieno said that it has been an honor to serve in the position since 2019, working alongside dedicated professionals and passionate football enthusiasts.
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Barry took over the reins following the resignation of his predecessor, Robert Muthomi, who stepped down amid a transfer controversy involving former FKF Premier league side Sofapaka’s striker John Avire.
He began as the Communications Manager from 2016 to 2017, before progressing to assume the role of Head of Communications and Marketing from 2017 to 2019.
The outgoing CEO in his letter said that his journey with FKF has been both rewarding and transformative.
Otieno further expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the football stakeholders who have supported him throughout his tenure.
“I am writing to formally announce my resignation as the General Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), effective today October 8, 2024. After five years of serving in this esteemed position, I have decided to step down and pursue other opportunities,” said Otieno in the letter.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the football stakeholders who have supported me throughout my tenure. To the FKF President, thank you for your unwavering support and guidance. Your vision for Kenyan football has been inspirational, and it has been a privilege to work alongside you in realizing those goals.”
Also Read: FKF Makes U-Turn on Tussle with Premier League Club Ahead of Special Meeting
Otieno at the same time said that as he prepares to hand over his responsibilities, he is confident that the federation is well-positioned for continued success.
Barry Otieno’s replacement named
Following his resignation, FKF in a statement named Patrick Korir as the interim CEO to replace Otieno, effective October 8.
The federation while announcing Korir as its new boss said that he brings a wealth of experience in Kenyan football.
FKF further maintained that it believes Patrick Korir will play a pivotal role in this transition and help steer the Federation toward even greater success.
The federation’s Presidential elections are set to begin at the branch level on November 9, culminating in the national elections on December 7.
Meanwhile, the federation has assured stakeholders that all scheduled activities and programs will proceed as planned.
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