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Former Inter Milan midfielder McDonald Mariga has an elaborate plan that he hopes will transform Kenyan football after being unveiled as Hussein Mohammed’s running mate.
Former Harambee Stars midfielder McDonald Mariga is promising to bring professionalism and sponsorship into Kenyan football if he is elected alongside Hussein Mohammed in the December 7 Football Kenya Federation (FKF) election.
Mariga was finally unveiled as the running mate of Extreme Sports boss Mohammed at a colourful ceremony in Nairobi on Friday, attended by footballers both past and present, political leaders as well as members from the business community.
The two will now team up for one ticket that they hope will lift Kenyan football if they are elected when the national polls are held on December 7.
“I have played football at the highest level, I know where the shoe pinches. I remember when we started out at Kamukunji High School under coach Peter Orero, we had to overcome many challenges before we reached the top but football was managed a little better that time,” Mariga said.
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“Now, it is worse. Our players are hungry, they are not paid well and cannot pay their bills. There is no money in Kenyan football and the league is not worth talking about.
“As we team up with Hussein, we want a fresh start, we want to bring sponsorship into the game. It will not be easy and it will take time but we are determined to win them. We also have to show accountability, something that has been lacking in the current regime. We need to show sponsors how we have spent their money.”
Mariga also promised to ensure former footballers are given a big role to play as they have the knowledge and experience to drive the game forward.
“We have to involve legends of the game as well. We cannot forget those who brought joy to the country because they opened the door for us and many others and they have the knowledge to shous us the way,” he added.
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Mohammed believes his knowledge gained from running Extreme Sports, a grassroots tournament that has been in existence for nearly two decades, added to his business connections, will combine well with Mariga’s knowhow for the benefit of Kenyan football.
“I have been to every corner of this country and seen first-hand the struggles and problems of Kenyan footballers. I know Kenyan football has been receiving a raw deal but it is now time for a fresh start,” said Mohammed.
“Mariga has played football at the highest level, won a league title in Italy as well as the Champions League and has local and international football appeal which will be crucial in our bid to change Kenyan football.”
The two will now hope to woo enough delegates to their fold to help them clinch the highly coveted seat that has attracted ex-Gor Mahia player Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino, Tom Alila, the former FKF NEC member for Nyanza, Kakamega Homeboyz boss Cleophas Shimanyula, Gor Mahia secretary general Sam Ochola, ex-FKF boss Sam Nyamweya with incumbent Nick Mwendwa also declaring interest to go for a third term.
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06:30 - 08.10.2024
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