Dindi says Namai is the right man to professionalize the club’s operations ahead of June 29 elections
NAIROBI —
AFC Leopards members have been urged to rally behind former Chief Executive Officer Ronald Namai in the upcoming club elections slated for Sunday, June 29, with one of the club’s key grassroots officials saying Namai is best suited to usher in a new era of professionalism and stability.
Edward Dindi, the Secretary General of AFC Leopards’ influential Facebook Branch and the overall coordinator of all branch secretaries, made a passionate appeal to members, citing Namai’s corporate experience, administrative track record, and longstanding loyalty to the club.
“For AFC Leopards to truly professionalize its structures, it requires leadership that understands how modern systems work. Namai fits that bill,” said Dindi in an open letter to members.
Namai, who served as the club’s CEO in 2016, is vying to succeed Dan Shikanda, the outgoing chairman whose term ends this month. He is contesting the seat alongside former Harambee Stars striker Boniface Ambani and former Leopards marketing director Enos Mutoka.
Dindi acknowledged Shikanda’s contributions during his tenure, describing him as a dedicated servant of the club. However, he said the next phase of leadership requires someone with a stronger grounding in strategy and governance.
“While our outgoing chairman, a former player and politician, gave his best, his term lacked the structural reforms needed for long-term success,” said Dindi. “Namai offers a clear departure from that – a shift towards results-oriented, accountable management.”
During his time at the club, Namai oversaw several significant initiatives. He led the review and alignment of the club’s Constitution with the Sports Act, facilitated member approval of a revised governance model, and ensured the registration of new club structures with the Registrar of Sports.
He is also credited with resolving the Waguluka case, a dispute that had threatened to attract FIFA sanctions against the club. Dindi further highlighted Namai’s role in steering AFC Leopards through CAF and FKF club licensing requirements, laying the groundwork for compliance with regional and continental football standards.
Namai’s commitment to youth development was also emphasized. He is credited with forming the club’s youth team, which produced top talents such as Austin Odhiambo, Lewis Bandi, and others. He is also said to have played a key role in recruiting promising players directly from high school, and successfully secured the signature of Vincent Oburu, fending off interest from arch-rivals Gor Mahia.
“He brought in players like Clyde Senaji, Marvin Nabwire, and Yusuf Mainge. His focus on talent development is evident,” said Dindi. “When the club was facing relegation in 2018, Namai stepped up as part of the rescue team. He’s been consistent in his support and involvement.”
Dindi concluded his statement by urging members to vote wisely.
“This is a crucial election for our beloved club. Namai has the qualifications, the temperament, and the experience. Let’s give him the mandate to lead AFC Leopards into a more professional and sustainable future.”
The AFC Leopards elections are expected to draw significant attention, with members set to choose a new leader who will guide one of Kenya’s most iconic football clubs through its next chapter.
