I am my own project, says Hussein

By Feverpitch Team

When age was included in the list of nine criteria to be adhered to for one to contest for the chairmanship in the forthcoming football elections, many speculated that Hussein Mohammed was the target. He is 34 years old, but the IEB set a threshold of 35.

He also came under scrutiny vis a vis Article 9B G, which barred persons who hold offices in political parties, parliament and civic authorities and have engaged in political party activities that may compromise or be seen to compromise the political neutrality of his office from contesting.

He has been linked with ODM and is close to Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Again when the rule on age was dropped following the intervention of Sports Minister, it was said to have been done for him.

At last week’s meeting of stakeholders and the Electoral Board, which was attended by Fifa delegate Leodegard Tenga, concerns were raised on the entire electoral code.

Sources intimate the code may be overhauled to allow everybody to run regardless of politics, religion and other considerations.

Earlier, grapevine was awash with word that Hussein was a Government candidate. But which side of the Government?

"I am my own project. This thing about age did not make sense, neither do the remaining rules like political affiliation etc," he said.

An influential man in business and politics, Hussein draws support from across the divide. Events in Parliament the day the code was released were testament to what kind of strings he can pull. Within 30 minutes, it was a hot subject of debate in Parliament and he was supported by politicians from the across the divide. He draws his strength from the success of the Super Eight tournament, which is organised by his firm, Extreme Sports Limited. He also represents change and his backers say he will breath a fresh air in football leadership.