Federations pose questions despite Echesa ouster

Rashid Echesa’s fleeting tenure as the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Culture and Heritage was brought to an end on Friday morning following President Uhuru Kenyatta’s latest cabinet reshuffle.

In his executive order, President Uhuru replaced Echesa with Amina Mohammed who worked in the Education docket under a similar capacity with the move drawing an indifferent reaction from Sports stakeholders.

National Federation heads steered clear of mentioning Echesa in their comments on the directive but the former boxer, whose appointment last year had sparked controversy, was not spared of online bashing.

Echesa’s dismissal was widely expected given his detachment from the docket he should lead and how his name has recently been thrown up in a series of scandals including the trafficking of eight Pakistani girls.

Here, Citizen Digital lists the varied reactions from national federation bosses as well as online users.

Football Kenya Federation (FKF): “As long as she is becomes efficient I have no problem with that, she doesn’t have to know football because there are many sports in these country, these ministry requires someone who can make decisions quickly an hoping she will make things work.” President Nick Mwendwa.

Kenyan Premier League (KPL): “We need proper infrastructure for the game to progress so far in Nairobi we have nine teams and only two stadiums are in use, Nyayo national stadium is not yet complete.

We also have stadiums outside Nairobi that are in a poor state if that a can be fast tracked it will definitely improve the game and have more matches were people are coming to the stadium .

These will also increase the revenue generated by the teams because it will not involve traveling for long distances and losing touch will the local fan base.

It’s also very important to have the sports fund implemented where it will help all the sports teams in the country.” CEO,Jack Oguda.

“Many teams are struggling financially not only in football but event other sports, am hoping that the new minister will fasten the implementation of the sports fund.

“Am hoping she will be ready to consult on matter sports and be near the consumers of sports that’s the only way she will improve them ministry ,” Chairman Ambrose Rachier.

Athletics Kenya (AK): “We welcome and will work with her. With her experience in the Government and Diplomatic world, plus our support, sports should grow. We wish her well   and success. Good luck.” President Lt. Gen (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei.

Amina Mohamed has been named the new Sports CS replacing Rashid Echesa who replaced Hassan Wario. Dear President @UKenyatta, Just spit balling here but maybe you could try and appoint a Sports CS who actually has a background in Sports and see how that works? #CabinetReshuffle

— Mukami Wambora (@MukamiWambora) March 1, 2019

-Gilbert Kiprotich contributed to this report