Gloves off as Hussein Mohammed files defamation lawsuit against FKF CEO Barry Otieno

IMAGES/ FKF & Murang'a Seal

Gloves off as Hussein Mohammed files defamation lawsuit against FKF CEO Barry Otieno

Festus Chuma 20:00 - 04.07.2024

Barry Otieno faces a defamation lawsuit from Hussein Mohammed escalating tensions and highlighting ongoing issues within the Football Kenya Federation.

Extreme Sports founder and CEO Hussein Mohammed has taken an assertive step in his ongoing battle against the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) by filing a defamation lawsuit against FKF CEO Barry Otieno.

This legal action represents a significant escalation in Mohammed's campaign against what he perceives as rampant impunity and unprofessionalism within the FKF.

Court documents seen by Pulse Sports indicate the lawsuit centers around a contentious letter from Otieno dated March 11, which informed Murang’a Seal FC that Mohammed was not a member of the FKF, thereby barring him from attending the FKF Annual General Meeting (AGM).

This AGM was subsequently canceled by the High Court in Mombasa following an injunction sought by Coastal Region FKF NEC Member Gabriel Mughedi.

A statement from his communications office, Mohammed revealed he has served Otieno with the lawsuit through his lawyers, citing several allegations.

"The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has provided the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) with substantial evidence of Nick Mwendwa’s corruption, particularly the misappropriation of funds meant for the renovation of stadiums. Yet, this case remains unprosecuted, adding to the long list of grievances against FKF’s leadership," part of Mohammed's communications team's statement alleges.

"The reinstatement of Nick Mwendwa and his NEC members, who were constitutionally removed from office, has been viewed as a blatant affront to justice and good governance," it adds.

In the lead-up to the aborted AGM, FKF members were asked to submit the names of their authorized representatives.

Murang’a Seal FC a member of the FKF Premier League submitted Mohammed's name as its vice chairman.

However, Otieno's letter rejected this appointment insinuating that Mohammed was not a member of the FKF.

"The communication was leaked through social media first before being officially communicated to Murang’a Seals. The effect of the letter was that Hussein Mohammed was subjected to public odium, ridicule, mockery and contempt.

"His reputation was greatly damaged owing to the immense contribution he has made in grassroot football development, youth empowerment and the fight against drug and substance abuse.

"The letter was meant to discredit any of his ambitions to run for office at the FKF portraying him as dishonest, incompetent, unethical, untrustworthy, lacks dignity and is selfish," the statement continued.

Hussein Mohammed's legal move is part of a broader series of lawsuits pending against top FKF officials.

These cases include accusations of corruption, illegal tenure and contempt of court.

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