I do not need anyone's permission to campaign, says Sholei

SAMMY SHOLEI Former FKF Vice Chairman Sammy Sholei

Suspended Football Kenya Federation (FKF) vice chairman Sammy Sholei says his campaign for the top post during this year’s elections is not hinged on former players.

“For the record, we are stating that ‘StopFootballGenocide’ group is not necessarily a group of former players. This is a group of professionals and like-minded people. Therefore, former players are free to support any candidate of their choice,” he said.

Sholei’s statement came as various candidates, who have expressed intentions to vie, took their campaign to delegates ahead of the October national elections.

Sholei, who is serving a six-year suspension, said he does not need the permission of any former player to campaign or support a particular candidate.

“Our team does not report to any group of players since we are not running under the banner of former football players. Rather, we will seek to bring both former footballers and businessmen together to build up a formidable side,” he said.

He regretted that in the past, some former players have been used to campaign for various candidates, only to be dumped later.

“This is the time for some former players to reap, but some of them are taking advantage of the situation to solicit for personal gains. It is their right, but they cannot tell us to seek permission from them to back a particular candidate,” he added.

Sholei said he is proud of his team, which is made up of professionals and businessmen. They include Dan Shikanda, Erick Obura, Vitalis Owuor, Shoto Lukoye, Ken Lukoye, Sammy Abogi, Salim Solomon, Gor Semelango, Martin Atito, Anthony Origi, Paul Onyera and George Opondo.

Elsewhere, candidates took their campaign to delegates ahead of the football elections in November.

Kariobangi Sharks’ chairman Nick Mwendwa took his campaign to Rift Valley last Friday before touring Machakos County.