• Tensions within the federation have been simmering after a disputed press release claimed Jim Kahumbura had replaced KMSF Chair Maina Muturi, a claim Muturi officially refuted.
• The statement underscored the commission's commitment to upholding the integrity of motorsport.
Image: FILE
Kenya Rally Commission chairman Richard Onyoni, alongside the entire commission leadership, has stepped down, citing internal conflicts within the Kenya Motorsport Federation (KMSF).
In a statement addressed to the KMSF chair, Onyoni highlighted the decision: “As the Chairman of the Rallies Commission and on behalf of the Rally Commission members, we would hereby wish to inform you of our immediate resignation as the appointed members of the Rallies Commission,” the statement read.
Rally Commission comprises driver Ian Duncan, African Rally champion Karan Patel and c0-drivers Linet Ayuko and Tuta Mionki. Others are FIA Certified officials Musa Locho, Gurvi Bhabra and Norris Ongalo.
The commission pointed to ongoing leadership issues within KMSF's Board of Directors and Motorsport Council as the driving force behind their resignation.
“The lack of leadership from the KMSF BOD and Motorsport Council has led to internal wrangles, severely impacting our ability to perform our duties,” the statement continued.
“These internal conflicts, now playing out publicly, have eroded confidence among stakeholders, competitors, and sponsors—all of whom the Rallies Commission is obliged to serve."
Tensions within the federation have been simmering after a disputed press release claimed Jim Kahumbura had replaced KMSF Chair Maina Muturi, a claim Muturi officially refuted.
"All members of the Rallies Commission have significantly contributed to motorsports and we refuse to tarnish our reputations or involve ourselves in matters detrimental to the sport in Kenya," the statement declared.
The statement underscored the commission's commitment to upholding the integrity of motorsport.
“We have a moral and ethical duty to the motorsport fraternity to safeguard the sport's best interests. Given the current situation, our position as Rallies Commission members is untenable. It is with great regret that we take this step.”
In his closing remarks, Onyoni expressed gratitude to KMSF for the opportunity to serve.
“I sincerely thank you for appointing me as the Rallies Commission Chairman on February 26, 2024, and for allowing the entire commission to serve the rallying community.”