CS Murkomen urges the judiciary to safeguard athletes.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged the judiciary to take a proactive role in protecting the financial interests of female athletes, many of whom have become victims of exploitation by opportunistic spouses. 

Speaking on Tuesday, November 26, during the unveiling of the Gender Protection and Implementation Committee at Talanta Plaza, Murkomen emphasised the need for a collaborative approach to address the financial vulnerabilities faced by these athletes. 

He specifically highlighted a growing number of cases where spouses, posing as managers or coaches, have defrauded female athletes of their hard-earned wealth.

“We must work closely with the judiciary. We need to engage the Chief Justice, the judiciary team, and even the Judiciary Training Institute to ensure that these cases are handled promptly,” Murkomen stated. 

He stressed that courts should be aware of these situations, especially when patterns of exploitation are evident.

Murkomen expressed frustration over cases where opportunists have taken advantage of female athletes under the guise of marital or professional relationships, subsequently claiming co-ownership of wealth they did not help to create. 

“The principle of contribution is not sufficient in such cases. Courts must recognise these unique circumstances,” he said, noting that several female athletes have confided in him about their struggles to reclaim their resources.

The establishment of the Gender Protection and Implementation Committee aims to protect athletes from such predatory behaviour. 

Murkomen described this initiative as a vital step toward ensuring that athletes are not left vulnerable to exploitation. 

This effort aligns with ongoing initiatives by the Ministry of Sports and Athletics Kenya (AK) to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in sports.

By involving various stakeholders, the ministry hopes to create a safer environment for athletes, particularly women. 

“It is through such initiatives that we can make our country safer for both women and men,” the CS affirmed. 

Murkomen reiterated the government’s commitment to combating GBV, a widespread issue affecting athletes both on and off the field. 

This latest initiative signals a broader effort to address systemic challenges in Kenyan sports and ensure that athletes, who bring pride to the nation, are not left unprotected.

For more news updates, tune in to NRG Radio or download the NRG Play App on your phone