Football Kenya Federation pledges to settle referee dues and introduce key reforms
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 11.02.25. | 18:07
Beyond payments, the meeting also proposed significant reforms aimed at improving refereeing standards and transparency
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has announced its commitment to clearing pending referee payments.
This decision came after a consultative meeting on Tuesday at Kandanda House, attended by FKF President Hussein Mohammed, Deputy President McDonald Mariga, the National Referees Committee, and the Referees Appointment Committee.
Referees officiating in the FKF Premier League and the National Super League (NSL) have been the most affected by prolonged payment delays.
In recent weeks, match officials have voiced their frustrations, stating that unfulfilled promises since the start of the season have made life increasingly difficult.
However, this situation may soon change, as FKF has promised to conduct an audit of outstanding dues from previous administrations.
This will guide the payment process and ensure referees receive what they are owed.
"An audit of outstanding dues from previous administrations will be conducted, and all verified amounts, including those from past administrations, will be settled, with priority given to obligations incurred under the new administration," read part of FKF’s statement.
Beyond payments, the meeting also proposed significant reforms aimed at improving refereeing standards and transparency.
In recent match weeks, referees have faced scrutiny over questionable decisions that have influenced game results.
To address this, FKF will implement a structured vetting process and data collection system for all referees within its leagues.
"A structural vetting process and data collection system will be implemented for all referees in FKF leagues," one of the resolutions stated.
Additionally, a digital referee appointment system will be introduced to enhance efficiency and fairness, while performance-based promotion will replace arbitrary selections.
Key Committee Resolutions:
1. Referee Vetting & Data Collection – A structured vetting process will be implemented for all referees in FKF leagues.
2. Policy Development – A framework policy document will be created to guide refereeing operations.
3. Fixture Management – FKF will enforce strict fixture discipline to prevent disruptions.
4. Referee Payments – An audit will verify outstanding dues, with priority given to debts under the new administration.
5. Digitisation & Transparency – A digital referee appointment system will ensure fair and efficient selections.
6. Promotion & Rewards – Promotions will be based on performance and structured assessments.
7. Security & Anti-Hooliganism– FKF will collaborate with security agencies to protect referees and hold clubs accountable for misconduct.
8. Referee Welfare – A Service Level Agreement (SLA) will ensure timely payments, and referees will receive annual gym subscriptions for fitness.
9. Branch Officials’ Interference– FKF will address concerns about branch officials influencing appointments and promotions.
10. Technology-Driven Promotions – A data-based system will be introduced for referee assessments and career progression.
11. Committee Collaboration – The National Referees Committee and the Appointment Committee will work together to ensure accountability and effective leadership.
