Former FKF President Sam Nyamweya and Lobby Group Unite to Reject Arati as Shabana Patron

A clash has erupted within Shabana Football Club as club patron Sam Nyamweya vehemently rejects the appointment of Kisii Governor Arati as his replacement. Nyamweya denounces the appointment as a coup and calls for its rejection.

Speaking on Sunday, Nyamweya asserts, “The position of patron should be determined through a plenary meeting of club members, not at a dinner gala. My position as patron has never been challenged, hence I remain the legitimate club patron.”

Juhudi Africa, a local lobby group, joins Nyamweya in his protest against Arati’s appointment, adding further weight to the resistance.

Bernard Nyamwaro, Group Communications and Programs Officer, echoes the call to shelve the appointment, questioning the lack of support from other club stakeholders who hold crucial opinions on the club’s management.

During the event, Arati donated a significant sum of KSh 20 million before being officially announced as the new club patron. Nyamwaro voices concerns, stating, “People, including fans, are questioning how the governor’s appointment was made without the backing of other stakeholders who play a critical role in shaping the club’s future.”

Nyamwaro demands the return of the governor’s donation, asserting that it influenced an illegitimate appointment.

Highlighting the 2011 polls, Nyamwaro emphasizes that Nyamweya still holds the position of club patron. He emphasizes the need for transparent sports management free from political influence and criticizes acting club chair Jared Nevaton for allegedly orchestrating a dangerous political game with Arati.

Stressing the lack of recent Annual General Meetings (AGMs), Nyamwaro suggests that the governor should have waited for a similar AGM to secure the patron position.

Nyamwaro acknowledges Nyamweya’s pivotal role in establishing a solid foundation for the club in the realm of football.

In a separate statement, Nyamweya warns that unless the appointment of Arati as patron is rescinded, it could have adverse effects on the club.

Shabana Football Club gained promotion to the premier league following an impressive victory over Migori Football Club.