Francis Baraza demands close to Ksh 5 Million from Kenya Police FC, alleges unfair dismissal

Immediate former Kenya Police Head Coach Francis Baraza is demanding close to Ksh 5 million from the football club for unfair dismissal from his position.

Baraza, who had been serving as the Head Coach for Kenya Police FC under a contract, claims that he was unfairly terminated from his position without due process and in violation of the terms of his employment contract. The demand letter, dated October 6, 2023, sent to Kenya Police FC by Ochutsi Munyendo and Company Advocates, outlines the details of Baraza's grievances.

Injured Francis Baraza in the dark over Police sacking

According to the demand letter, Baraza entered into a contract with Kenya Police FC on or about June 28, 2023, which specified a net monthly salary of Ksh 400,000. The letter asserts that Baraza fulfilled his duties diligently during his tenure, dedicating his time and efforts to the success of the football club.

In pursuit of his coaching career, Baraza attended the CAF 'A' License Diploma Training in August 2023, as permitted by Kenya Police FC. Unfortunately, during the training, he suffered an Achilles tendon injury, which led to his temporary inability to engage in physical and aggressive activities related to coaching. He followed the medical advice provided and stayed away from such activities to aid his recovery.

How Shabana have been reaping big from Peter Ogechi's versatility

The demand letter argues that Kenya Police FC's actions amounted to a breach of Baraza's right to fair labor practices, as enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. The club's decision to appoint a Croatian national, Zdravko Logarusic, as his replacement is alleged to be a breach of their binding contract.

Furthermore, Kenya Police FC has purportedly failed to pay Baraza his outstanding salary for the month of September 2023, despite his readiness to provide his services. This non-payment has caused significant financial hardship for Baraza.

In response to these allegations, Ochutsi Munyendo & Company Advocates has issued a demand for various terminal benefits under the Employment Act 2007 and the Regulations on Status and Transfer of Players, Rules for the Employment of Coaches. These demands include:

1. Notice Pay - Kshs. 400,000/-

2. Salary Arrears for September 2023 - Kshs 400,000/-

Vincent Harper: The England based defender set to earn his maiden Harambee Stars call-up

3. Constructive Dismissal - Kshs 3,200,000/-

4. Unfair Termination - Kshs 800,000/-

5. Advocates Collection fees at Kshs 100,000/-

The total amount demanded by Baraza's legal team is Ksh 4,900,000.

The demand letter concludes by warning Kenya Police FC that if they do not respond to these demands within seven days from the date of the letter, legal proceedings may be initiated against them without further notice.

It is unclear how Kenya Police FC will respond to these allegations and demands from their former coach, but this situation is likely to attract attention from football fans and legal experts alike.

For now, Francis Baraza insists that he was unfairly dismissed and is determined to pursue his claims through legal means.