Tusker FC coach Charles Okere is the latest to join the call for the privatization of the Kenyan Premier League.
Tusker FC head coach Charles Okere has voiced his support for the privatization of the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL), urging the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to hand over the league’s management to a private entity. This comes amid growing concerns over the federation’s handling of the league.
The Kenyan Premier League (KPL), a private company, managed the country’s top-tier football league from 2003 until 2020, when FKF assumed control after KPL’s contract expired.
Reflecting on that era, Okere highlighted the league’s success under private management, citing improved finances, increased exposure, and broadcasting deals that brought international attention.
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Tusker coach Charles Okere has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to challenge for the FKF Premier League title and end the dominance of Gor Mahia.
“Handing over the league to a private company brings league autonomy and independence like it used to be when the league was under KPL. During that period, broadcasters like SuperSport marketed our league, leading to foreign players coming to Kenya,” Okere told Citizen Digital.
The Brewers tactician emphasized the need for sponsorship and infrastructural development as crucial factors for improving the league’s quality and competitiveness.
“The federation should also get sponsors for our main league. Everybody wants a good competition to achieve success at the end of the season. A successful league will strengthen our ability to compete with international teams,” Okere added.
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The Football Kenya Federation is probing an incident where referees claimed to have been mishandled in two matches over the weekend on Sunday.
He also called for investment in infrastructure, noting that proper facilities are critical to elevating Kenyan football standards.
Okere’s sentiments echo those of FKF President Hussein Mohammed, who has previously advocated for privatizing the league.
During his campaign in August 2024, Mohammed outlined plans to create a semi-autonomous structure for the league, allowing it to independently manage sponsorships and other affairs while retaining oversight from FKF.
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FKF presidential aspirant Hussein Mohammed is keen to have the Kenyan Premier League run independently as witnessed before the federation took charge in 2020.
“The Premier League must revert to an agreement where it is semi-autonomous. They need the freedom to reconstitute themselves into a company, source sponsorships, and run certain affairs independently. The federation would oversee aspects like refereeing, capacity building, and remuneration,” Mohammed told NTV at the time.
While Mohammed’s pledge remains unfulfilled, the calls for privatization are gaining momentum. Advocates believe this move could revive the league, bringing back the vibrancy and competitiveness seen during the KPL era.
The debate underscores the growing demand for structural reforms to enhance Kenyan football’s prospects, both locally and on the global stage.
