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{
    "id": 759781,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/759781/?format=api",
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    "content": "ACTION BY CAF TO STRIP KENYA OF THE RIGHTS TO HOST THE 2018 CHAN Mr. Speaker, Sir, I rise pursuant to Standing Order No. 46 (2) (a) to make a Statement on a general issue concerning the actions by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to strip Kenya of the rights to host the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN). The continental soccer body made the tough decision following Kenya’s delay in completing the construction of the stadia that were to be used and the political climate in the country. It must be remembered that Kenya won the nod to host the football competition slightly over three years ago but it appears that someone slept on the job. This development evokes Kenya’s failed attempt to host the African Cup of Nations finals in 1996 after failing to build the necessary stadia leaving the continental football body with no choice but to turn to South Africa as an alternative host. Mr. Speaker, Sir, the decision by CAF now puts Kenya to shame. We have lost an opportunity to have our players play at the biggest stage in continental football, besides the economic impact this type of events have, not to mention our global profile being raised and a boost to trade and investment. Mr. Speaker, Sir, the Executive Order Number 2 dated May, 2013 on the Organisation of the Government spells out the mandate of the Ministry of Sports, Culture and the Arts among others; to develop and coordinate sports; promote and develop sports facilities; and spearhead the expansion of the sports industry in Kenya. It is disheartening that after successfully bidding for the event, no serious thought went into putting in place the infrastructure that is needed to host it. This is another failure of the Government of Kenya and an embarrassment to all of us. This shameful loss comes hot on the heels of the Rio 2016 Olympics debacle where although Kenya had its most successful performance ever in Olympics, the shambolic and chaotic preparations that included missing shoes, ill-fitting uniforms, a brawl among teammates over prize money and completely inadequate training facilities brought a lot of shame to our country. Mr. Speaker, Sir, I therefore take this opportunity to appeal to the Executive and particularly the Ministry of Sports, Culture and the Arts to wake up and get its act in"
}