Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed has moved to quell growing speculation of a fallout with his deputy, McDonald Mariga, after the former Harambee Stars skipper during past scenarios was noticeably absent from several recent FKF events.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Hussein downplayed any rift, insisting that relations within the federation remain cordial. He explained that each official has well-defined responsibilities under the FKF constitution and statutes.

Hussein stressed that while he has no personal issues, Mariga, as vice president, is best placed to clarify his own position.

“I think I have a good relation so far. He’s got his responsibilities as a deputy, my responsibilities as president, and every other member of NEC. As far as I’m concerned, I don’t have particular issues. Of course, the other person to respond on such a matter will be the vice president. I cannot speak for both of us—he can speak for himself,” Hussein stated.

The FKF boss also highlighted the policies his administration put in place from the onset, emphasizing non-interference in team selection.

He said the technical bench was given full independence, a competent team was appointed, and every necessary support was extended to ensure professionalism.

“The policies we put in place right at the beginning, I was very categorical that our administration will not, first of all, interfere with the selection of players. I stood my ground on this and we ensured that everybody within the administration was aware of this policy. Secondly, of course, we gave the technical bench complete freedom and then we also appointed a competent team and gave them all the support that they required.”

The speculation about a strained relationship between Hussein and Mariga has been fueled online by the latter’s repeated absence at past critical FKF functions, with some suggesting underlying tensions.

However, Hussein’s remarks appeared intended to shift the conversation back to policy and transparency within the federation.

Hussein was elected FKF president on December 7 last year, ending Nick Mwendwa nine-year tenure. He secured 67 votes in the second round of the hotly contested polls, after falling short in the first round with 42 votes.

Alongside him, Mariga—who captained Harambee Stars during his playing career—was elected as vice president, a move seen then as a unifying ticket.

With speculation lingering, Hussein’s invitation for Mariga to address the claims directly places the ball firmly in the deputy’s court with stakeholders calling for continued unity to promote and develop Kenyan football.