The government has issued a directive to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to provide them with the contract of Engin Firat, the head coach of the national football team, Harambee Stars.

The Cabinet Secretary for Sports Ababu Namwamba stated that the government had no involvement in FKF’s appointment of Firat as head coach on September 19, 2021.

According to Namwamba, the government had not paid Firat’s salary, as there was no prior knowledge or official agreement regarding his appointment.

“We have requested for his contract since we want to know the terms and conditions specified in the contract,” said Namwamba.

He further revealed that he had already engaged in discussions with both the coach and FKF, but the details of Firat’s employment had not been thoroughly discussed.

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The CS said that once they received the contract, they would subsequently consult with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to determine the appropriate course of action.

Engin Firat reveals he has not been paid for nine months

A fortnight ago, Firat revealed he had endured a nine-month period without receiving his pay.

This is despite the government’s pledge to resolve the matter made just three months ago.

Addressing journalists on Monday, September 4, 2023, Firat highlighted what he termed as the immense sacrifices he has made for Kenyan football.

“For salaries, I will answer like this. There is nobody in Kenyan football who makes more sacrifices than me. I think that is an answer enough… of course, nothing is paid,” Firat stated.

Government pledges to clear Firat’s salary

Three months prior, the government through the Ministry of Sports, assured the public that they were actively working to address the outstanding salary owed to the Turkish coach.

“We are working closely to play our role, which includes paying the team’s head coach and his assistants so that they can prepare our teams accordingly,” Namwamba said in June.