Boniface Ambani promises to restore AFC Leopards roar after taking over

Former Harambee Stars striker Bonface Ambani has vowed to rebrand FKF Premier League giants AFC Leopards and restore their glory after winning the club’s elections held in Nairobi on Sunday.

Ambani, who played for AFC Leopards and was part of the squad during their last league title win in 1998, received 1,101 votes to defeat his sole challenger, Enos Mutoka, who garnered 682. He replaces Dan Shikanda, who served two terms.

Ambani was elected alongside Isaac Mulindi, the new Secretary General, after receiving 656 votes to beat Robert Situma (534) and Irene Sitawa (429), while Newton Lime was elected the new treasurer, with 676 votes to beat Edward Buhasho (599) and Patrick Kanyangi (445).

“I thank you deeply for your trust. You have not just elected a leader; you have reignited the roar of AFC Leopards,” said Ambani in a statement seen by Pan-Africa Football. “This victory belongs to you: the fans, the branches, and the Leopards faithful. It confirms that Ingwe’s spirit is alive and rising.

“I pledge to lead this great club with integrity, discipline, and ambition. But for us to succeed, we must change: how we recruit, how we partner, how we manage, and above all – how we value our fans. We must reform to rise. We must rebuild to roar.”

Ambani also congratulated his opponent, Enos Mutoka, for putting up a strong challenge and invited him to work together in building a stronger AFC Leopards.

“I want to sincerely thank my opponent (Enos Mutoka) for being a worthy challenger and for running a strong, spirited campaign. You pushed me to be better, to dig deeper, and for that, I am truly grateful.

“You are a true son of Ingwe, and your passion for this club is undeniable. This victory does not mark the end of your role, it marks a new beginning in which your voice, wisdom, and counsel will still be needed. I look forward to walking this journey with you, united by our love for AFC Leopards.”

He continued: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the newly elected officials. Together, we form one united team, bound by a shared passion and purpose: to restore AFC Leopards to the greatness it deserves. I look forward to working with each of you in a spirit of harmony, commitment, and Ingwe pride. The journey ahead is ours to shape – together.”

Ambani will now be tasked with helping Ingwe return to its glory days – most notably by ending the club’s long wait for a Premier League title.