Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga has moved to stop the planned launch of the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Season 5, citing lack of approval by the federation’s top decision-making organ.
In a formal statement dated May 4, 2026, addressed to Safaricom PLC, the FKF National Executive Committee (NEC) clarified that any agreement or partnership undertaken without its approval is null and irregular.
The correspondence, issued on behalf of the NEC, acknowledges Safaricom’s continued support in developing football in Kenya and its role in youth empowerment through the Chapa Dimba tournament.
NEC Asserts Authority Over Partnerships
According to Mariga, the NEC is mandated under the FKF Constitution to approve all binding commitments entered into on behalf of the federation. Any arrangements made outside this framework, the committee notes, fall short of the required governance standards and procedures.
“Any agreement or partnership arrangement undertaken without the approval of the NEC is null, irregular, and contrary to the provisions of the FKF Constitution,” said Mariga.
The committee emphasises that adherence to established approval processes is essential to ensure alignment with the federation’s governance framework.
Call for Compliance and Restraint
Mariga urged restraint and called for strict compliance with constitutional provisions and internal approval mechanisms. It stressed the need for structured engagement moving forward, once the current concerns are addressed.
“In light of the foregoing, we kindly urge restraint and emphasize the need for compliance with the Constitution and established approval processes to ensure alignment with the Federation’s governance framework, said Mariga.
The committee reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships, signalling willingness to engage once due process is followed.
The dispute highlights broader governance concerns within FKF, particularly around decision-making authority and adherence to constitutional structures. By asserting its position, the NEC is seeking to reinforce institutional control over major partnerships and initiatives tied to the federation.
Focus on Structured Engagement
While the communication does not directly cancel the tournament, it places the planned launch in question pending compliance with NEC approval requirements.
The committee maintains that all future engagements must align with constitutional provisions to safeguard governance standards within the federation.
The development introduces uncertainty over the rollout of Safaricom Chapa Dimba Season 5, even as FKF leadership pushes for adherence to formal approval processes before proceeding.
