Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Sam Nyamweya sensationally stepped down from defending his seat just minutes before the national polls were conducted on Wednesday afternoon.

Nyamweya announced he would not be seeking re-election at the end of his speech infront of the delegates at the Special General Meeting at Kasarani gymnasium.

“Dear friends, distinguished delegates; I have done my part throughout my service as secretary General of then Kenya Football Federation (1996 – 2000), as Secretary General of CECAFA and now as the first President of FKF and the record is there for all to see but there comes a time to make critical decisions. That time, dear friends, has come and I have to make a call – a call to hand over active leadership of football and oversee a smooth transition.

“I have made this decision out of love for the game, the passion and appreciation that no good leader should be pushed to give up power and that; while I may still possess the energy and drive to lead FKF, there may be others with fresh vigour and charisma to take over and my input would be much more relevant in alternative spheres of service.

“I have thought greatly about this decision, and it’s the right thing to do. I am sure that the reaction to this announcement will bring joy to some and anger to others but allow me address myself to why this is so important at this time.”

“My family needs me now, more than ever, especially my daughter who is bravely battling a medical condition and my businesses demand for my greater attention than before.

“As I say goodbye to active football administration, may I remind us that farewells are not forever, nor are they the end but are simple words to mark the beginning of a transition to other things.

“Although I will not be involved in the day-to-day running of the federation, nothing will diminish my desire and availability to support whenever so required and I appreciate the important role that you have and always will play to my life. The FKF family is a fantastic yet diverse fabric and I urge that we focus on the individuals’ strengths and use them in a goal-directed function within our organization.

“I echo the words of Sepp Blatter in saying that “what matters to me more than anything is that at the end of the day, football is the winner.

In conclusion, I leave you with the Irish blessing that “may the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields.”

Collins Okinyo

Ex- CAF Media Expert. An expert on African football with over 15 years experience ,always with an ear to the ground with indepth knowledge of the game. I have worked for top publications including 7 years at www.supersport.com until i founded www.soka25east.com to quench the thirst of football lovers across the continent. I have trained young upcoming journalists who are now a voice in African football.I have covered World Cup,AFCON,CHAN,Champions League,Confederations Cup,Cecafa,Cosafa,Wafu and many other football tournaments across the World. Founder Football Africa Arena(FAA),Founder www.afrisportdigital.com