The National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) Service Team, led by presidential candidate Francis Mutuku, has officially submitted its nomination papers to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) ahead of the highly anticipated NOC-K elections scheduled for April 24, 2025. The elections mark a significant moment in Kenyan sports leadership, as Mutuku and his team aim to usher in a new era under the theme “Serve, Innovate, Elevate.”
The NOC-K Service Team has outlined a vision focused on athlete welfare, governance reforms, and expanding Kenya’s representation at global sporting events. By leveraging technology and innovation, the team seeks to elevate Kenyan sports to new heights while ensuring transparency and integrity in all operations.
The team’s lineup features prominent figures from a wide range of sporting disciplines. Francis Mutuku, representing tennis, is vying for the position of President. Antony Otieno Ombok, President of the Boxing Federation of Kenya, is the candidate for First Vice President.
Anthony Kariuki, representing wrestling, is running for Second Vice President. John Ogolla, from the weightlifting community, is seeking the role of Secretary General, while Humphrey Khayange, a rugby representative and current IOC member, is running for Assistant Secretary General. Mohamed Shoaib Vayani, from the shooting discipline, is the team’s candidate for Treasurer, and Paul Otula, representing basketball, is running for Assistant Treasurer. Additional committee members come from the tennis, handball, squash, and shooting federations, bringing a diverse and experienced background to the slate.
Speaking after the submission of his nomination papers, Mutuku reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the sporting landscape in Kenya. “This is a moment of promise and opportunity for Kenyan athletes and federations. Together with my team, we are ready to deliver a future where sports thrive through innovation, collaboration, and strategic planning,” he said.
Antony Otieno Ombok echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the team’s dedication to ethical leadership. “Our team is committed to serve with integrity. We are focused on strengthening sports federations and championing clear structures and strong internal systems,” he stated.
Secretary General candidate John Ogolla underscored the importance of seamless coordination within NOC-K. “We will ensure a system that aligns all arms of the organization—from federations to partners—so we move together as one,” he remarked.
In an effort to maintain neutrality and avoid internal conflicts, the team has opted not to affiliate athlete representatives with any election camp. Instead, Athletics Kenya will designate a male representative, while other federations will collaborate to select a female representative.
With the election date fast approaching, the NOC-K Service Team is positioning itself as a force for change in Kenyan sports leadership. Their collective expertise, clear vision, and united front present a compelling case for a transformative future for both athletes and sporting federations across the country.
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