KENYA: FKF pledges to pay Mariga's owed dues

Mariga pulled out of last month’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Togo at the Nyayo National Stadium, which Harambee Stars won 2-1, over unpaid bonuses.

In a letter to Mariga, FKF chairman Sam Nyamweya said he will try "to resolve any outstanding matters" for the good of the national team.

FKF wants copies of air tickets

Nyamweya also asked for copies of Mariga’s air tickets so that he can be suitably reimbursed.

"I have followed with deep concern recent developments that seemed to create the impression that the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and yourself are squabbling," Nyamweya wrote on Tuesday.

"After much thought and soul searching, I have taken the bold step to send this letter to you and address the matters arising from the unfortunate misunderstanding and to also try and resolve any outstanding matters that soiled the image of our nation."

Nyamweya went on to add how much the FKF appreciates the services, patriotism and ambassadorial role of the Parma player.

"We in the Federation and the country at large are proud of you and hold you in high esteem," the FKF chairman added.

Sudden change of tack

The letter represents a turn-around for the football body which last month said it was "saddened by the way (Mariga) handled the matter" after his walk-out on the eve of the Togo game on February 29.

Mariga pulled out of the squad after saying he was owed around $20,000 (about Sh1.5 million) in expenses from previous trips to link up with the national team.

The FKF pointed out that it only took over running of the Kenyan game in last October, after a long-running dispute over who should have control, and said its predecessors had not handed over the information it needs.

In the letter, the FKF asks for Mariga to provide his air tickets for previous trips "to enable us to process your refund pronto."

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