CHAN 2024: Why Senator Wants Kenya To Withdraw

Image source: KDRTV

CHAN 2024: Why Senator Wants Kenya To Withdraw

Abigael Wafula 11:30 - 04.06.2025

The senator has called for Kenya to reconsider its role in co-hosting CHAN 2024 amid rising political tensions in the region.

The African Nations Championship is scheduled to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from Saturday, August 2 to 30, 2025.

The event was initially scheduled for September 2024 but was pushed to February 2025. However, it was postponed for the second time in a row to August since CAF explained that there were no match venues that met the standards in some of the host countries.

As the dates fast approach, a new twist has emerged following a tweet from Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has made a passionate plea to the government to withdraw from co-hosting the event.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

Edwin Sifuna: Withdraw from Joint Hosting of CAF

Edwin Sifuna
Edwin Sifuna wants Kenya out of CHAN co-hosting

His claims come after activists Boniface Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire were allegedly abducted and tortured by Tanzanian authorities in late May.

The duo had gone to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu, a vocal critic of the Tanzanian government, and their visit had been linked to democracy and human rights advocacy, ahead of Tanzania’s upcoming elections.

They were allegedly targeted for their association with Tundu Lissu and accused of engaging in activities perceived as political interference.

The incident has led to diplomatic tensions and public outrage, and in response, Edwin Sifuna has called for the country to withdraw from co-hosting the continental event.

In a tweet, Edwin Sifuna said, “First, ban the entire CCM leadership from visiting our country. Second, withdraw from joint hosting of CAF with the dictatorships in Uganda and Tanzania.

“Thirdly, move the EALS annual conference from Zanzibar. Withdraw that fake apology and demand that Tanzania apologise to us instead.”

East Africa Promises a World-Class Event

Salim Mvurya
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya. IMAGE/ Courtesy

Despite his demands, preparations are underway to give fans and players an unforgettable experience on D-Day.

In a high-level meeting chaired by Kenya’s Sports CS Salim Mvurya, it was noted that preparations are underway to make a difference.

The event was attended by Uganda’s Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang, and Tanzania’s Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi.

“As PAMOJA countries, we have made significant strides and are now focused on finalising key elements, including cross-border facilitation, budgetary allocations, and tax exemptions to ensure a smooth and successful tournament. With less than 60 days to kick off, we have committed to holding regular consultative meetings to swiftly address any emerging issues,” Mvurya said in a statement.

As the clock ticks towards the August kick-off, East Africa now stands at a crossroads, balancing the ambition of hosting a landmark event with rising political tensions. Whether these concerns will influence Kenya’s continued involvement remains to be seen.

Tags: