The Kenya Tchoukball Federation (KTF) is embroiled in a leadership conflict that has escalated to the courts, disrupting the sport’s governance and Kenya’s involvement in continental competitions.
At the heart of the dispute are two factions: one led by KTF founder and former president Kennedy Miruka, and the other by Secretary General Keziah Odero. Both groups claim legitimate leadership, rejecting allegations of unlawful occupation.
Election Controversy
Miruka has challenged the validity of elections held in March 2026, asserting that his faction was neither informed nor involved. He insists that official elections were scheduled for July 2027 and criticizes the Sports Disputes Tribunal’s ruling that favored Odero’s faction. His team has filed for a judicial review, with the court expected to hear the case on September 21.
"We want a transparent and inclusive electoral process that allows all federation members to participate fairly," Miruka stated, expressing willingness to cooperate with rival leaders.
Odero’s Position
Odero maintains that the elections were conducted lawfully under the Sports Act and that Miruka’s refusal to participate is the root cause of the dispute. She notes the federation’s registration in 2024 and compliance with the requirement to hold elections within 90 days.
Regarding Kenya’s absence from the recent African Tchoukball Championships despite qualifying, Odero attributes the failure to government funding delays and alleges that Miruka played a role in the setback.
Implications for Kenyan Tchoukball
The ongoing leadership impasse threatens the federation’s stability and the development of tchoukball in Kenya. The High Court’s upcoming ruling could be pivotal in resolving the dispute and determining the sport’s future governance.
- Rival factions: Kennedy Miruka vs. Keziah Odero
- Disputed elections held in March 2026
- Judicial review case set for September 21, 2026
- Kenya missed African Championships due to funding delays
