CAF postpones CHAN inspection visit to Kenya

Presidential results ruling From left)Hon.Justice Njoki Susanna Ndung'u,Smokin Wanjala ,deputy chief justice Philomena Mwilu,Chief Justice David Maraga, Jackton Ojwang and Justice Isaac Lenaola Six beach Judges during the ruling of presidential results at Supreme court on 1st September 2017.Edward Kiplimo,Standard]

The Confederation of African Football has cancelled its scheduled inspection of facilities in the country due to the prevailing political climate.

The announcement comes two days after the Supreme Court nullified the August 8 presidential election.

The Confederation of African Football (Caf) says it is unsafe to conduct the scheduled inspection of venues that will host next year’s Africa Nations Championships (CHAN).

 Caf said it would send its vice president, Constant Omari, to assess the situation before a new date for the inspection is announced.

“We have just been informed that in light of the recent happenings, Caf will be sending its second vice president, Constant Omari Selemani, to assess the political and security situation in the country before they can proceed with the inspection visit,” FKF President Nick Mwendwa said in a statement.

“Consequently, the planned inspection visit that was scheduled for this week has been shelved, with Caf informing us that they will only announce a new date after they assess the political situation in the country.”

Omari was scheduled to arrive last evening. The Government, through Sports Permanent Secretary Kirimi Kaberia, said Caf inspectors have nothing to worry about.

“What is happening in Kenya is a normal political process that must be completed and it does not affect the day-to-day running of the Government and normal life. We welcome them any time they feel is okay for the process,” he said.

“Our obligations to international duties remain on track. We bid for CHAN and are determined to host it,” he added.

Kaberia added that the country is ready for the inspection and that work has started in all the venues that are supposed to host the tournament.

The latest news from Caf is a big setback to Kenya’s chances of hosting the tournament.