The 2023/2024 Nairobi County Regional League season ended on a sour note for Baba Dogo FC, marking yet another chapter in a long history of controversial leadership by Nairobi East Branch Chairman, Dickson Doyo, popularly known as “Madilu.” The league, which is meant to foster competition and fairness, has once again become a theater of favoritism and blatant discrimination.
The Controversy
Baba Dogo FC, despite earning third place in the league behind Kariobangi Legends Youth FC (first) and Lucky Summer Sports Club (second), was denied promotion to Division 2. Constitutionally, the third-placed team should have been the automatic pick for the extra promotion slot if available. However, Chairman Madilu bypassed Baba Dogo and instead promoted the fifth-placed team, Automech FC.
While Automech FC cannot be blamed for this unjust decision, the move reeks of favoritism and raises serious concerns about how football is governed in the Nairobi East Branch.
A Pattern of Victimization
This is not the first time Baba Dogo FC has faced unfair treatment under Chairman Madilu’s reign. The team has long been at odds with the current administration due to its refusal to align with the chairman’s self-serving leadership style. Clubs critical of Madilu’s governance have frequently found themselves sidelined, while those who praise him enjoy preferential treatment.
This style of leadership has eroded trust among clubs, with complaints of unilateral decision-making, lack of consultation with stakeholders, and the exclusion of even the branch secretariat in critical decisions.
Baba Dogo Takes a Stand
This time, Baba Dogo FC has chosen to fight back, moving to the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) to sue Chairman Madilu, Nairobi Region NEC Member Oush, and other officers responsible for this discriminatory decision.
By taking legal action, the club seeks not only justice for itself but also a reckoning for the many clubs suffering in silence under the current administration.
A Moment for Change
The unfairness witnessed this season has sparked a growing call for change among football stakeholders in Nairobi East. With FKF elections just weeks away, clubs and fans are rallying behind new leadership that will prioritize merit, integrity, and transparency. The time has come to replace Chairman Madilu and his allies with leaders who are committed to fairness and the development of grassroots football.
The Bigger Picture
This controversy isn’t just about Baba Dogo FC; it’s a symptom of a larger problem in how football is managed in Nairobi East. Clubs that dare to question the status quo are punished, while loyalty to flawed leadership is rewarded. This toxic environment stifles the growth of the game and disempowers the very stakeholders that football is meant to serve.
Call to Action
Football stakeholders must stand together and demand accountability. The upcoming elections present an opportunity to end the reign of favoritism and usher in leaders who respect the rules and uphold the values of the sport. It’s time to rebuild trust, restore fairness, and give every team an equal chance to succeed based on merit.
Baba Dogo FC’s fight for justice is a rallying cry for all clubs that have suffered in silence. The message is clear: the days of impunity are numbered, and a new era of transparency and fairness is within reach.
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