FKF CEO, Muthomi, steps aside over Avire’s Cairo scandal
Football
By
Brian Murumba
| Jul 21, 2019
Football Kenya Federation CEO Chief Executive Officer Robert Muthomi on Sunday, July 21, stepped aside over the allegations that he tried to illegally sell Sofapaka and Harambee Stars striker John Avire.
In a press statement, the FKF Chief said his decision to step aside was to protect his integrity and that of his office.
He also said he believed his action was good for the public’s confidence in him and the federation while describing the allegations as “malicious”.
He, however, insisted that he had not resigned and that he believed in vindication and clearance after a full investigation.
“Given the on-going debate and conversations in regards to the allegations made by Sofapaka FC on my purported involvement in the transfer of player John Avire, I have this morning requested the FKF President to allow me to step aside for investigations to commence.
“While I have utmost faith in the independence and competence of the FKF judicial process as earlier stated, I realise that for my integrity and that of the office of the FKF General Secretary, as well as the greater football public a credible process has to be undertaken.
“I am also convinced that this is the best course of action both for the public to have confidence in me and FKF.
“I am cognizant of the fact that my continued execution of the role of General Secretary while this process is ongoing may be seen as an attempt to circumvent or influence the investigation process,” read the statement in part.
The news on the Avire saga hit the headlines when Muthomi was accused of trying to sell the Sofapaka striker behind the club's back.
A letter, claimed to have been signed by him and addressed to Egyptian Embassy seeking striker John Avire be granted a visa to go watch the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, infuriated Sofapaka, who in turn wrote a protest letter to FKF President Nick Mwendwa.
Sofapaka's eyebrows were raised by the fact that Avire was seeking the visa as a fan alongside Augustine Ramaita, a renowned player agent.
FKF admitted to having received the complaint from Sofapaka and promised to investigate the matter.
“Sofapaka wrote to me and claiming Muthomi had a hand in the transfer of their player. We are investigating with a view of taking the matter to respective disciplinary bodies of the federation," said Mwendwa.