Board votes out Obuya amid governance crisis
In a dramatic escalation of Cricket Kenya’s internal turmoil, the federation’s majority board has unanimously passed a vote of no confidence in Acting Treasurer Kennedy Obuya. The board cited serious governance violations and financial mismanagement as grounds for the suspension.
“It was unanimously resolved that a Vote of No Confidence be passed in Kennedy Obuya on the following grounds: Abuse of office; Failing to perform his duties under the Constitution; Mismanagement of resources and finances of Cricket Kenya; and bringing the game of Cricket into disrepute.”
— Cricket Kenya Board resolution, as stated in official board statement signed by six members
The meeting, held on September 24, included key board members such as Pearlyne Omamo, Thomas Odoyo, Tariq Iqbal, Beryl Oyugi, Mary Maina, and Pauline Njeru. CEO Ronald Bukusi was also present. The same group previously moved to strip Chairman Manoj Patel of executive powers in June.
Bank access revoked for Patel and Obuya
Following the no-confidence motion, the board took further steps to restrict Obuya and Patel’s influence by blocking their access to Cricket Kenya’s financial operations.
“It was further resolved that Manoj Patel and Kennedy Obuya are hereby barred from transacting or issuing instructions on behalf of Cricket Kenya in respect to all bank accounts. The Secretary is hereby instructed to communicate the resolutions to the bank and ensure compliance.”
— Cricket Kenya Board directive, as stated in official meeting resolution
This financial lockout is part of a broader strategy by the majority faction to stabilize Cricket Kenya’s administration ahead of a lawful Special General Meeting (SGM) scheduled for October 19.
ICC intervention and suspension threats loom
While internal governance continues to unravel, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly taken notice — and action. According to Citizen Digital, the ICC has placed Kenya on a high-risk watch list due to continued breaches of its membership criteria.
“The ICC position as at now is that Kenya is in breach of their membership criteria.”
— Senior government official, as quoted by Citizen Digital
The ICC’s intervention has included warnings to Kenyan officials and plans to send a representative to meet with Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya. The international body has shown a no-tolerance stance in similar cases, suspending the United States just days earlier for continued governance failures.
T20 league controversy and fallout
Much of the current crisis stems from an unsanctioned T20 League launched in August — a tournament attended by Obuya but condemned by CEO Ronald Bukusi. The controversy escalated when Bukusi publicly accused the tournament’s sponsor, Arena of Sports (AOS), of breaching contractual obligations.
This triggered retaliation from the so-called “Supreme Council,” who attempted to suspend Bukusi — a move the majority board dismissed.
The situation worsened when Obuya, once a supporter of Patel’s ouster, aligned himself with the embattled chairman. The pair organized their own “SGM” despite the Registrar of Sports confirming it had been postponed. Their actions were deemed illegitimate by the rest of the board.
Termination of AOS contract over governance violations
In a separate but related move, the board has severed ties with Arena of Sports, citing serious breaches of trust and attempts to unduly influence board decisions.
“On 10 September 2025, the board, by majority resolution, terminated its agreement with AOS citing severe reputational damage and grave breaches of governance including attempts to improperly influence Board members through financial inducements and external pressure.”
— Ronald Bukusi, CEO, Cricket Kenya, as quoted by Citizen Digital
What lies ahead for Cricket Kenya
With the October 19 SGM approaching and ICC sanctions looming large, Cricket Kenya faces a pivotal moment in its future. Any suspension could cripple the sport’s development in the country, freeze funding, and bar Kenya from ICC-sanctioned events.
For now, the board’s majority wing appears determined to restore governance integrity — but time is running out.
