Kwesi Mugisa, Staff Reporter

KSAFA president, Stewart Stephenson. - Ian Allen Staff/Photographer

Incumbent KSAFA president Stewart Stephenson will make way at the end of a second consecutive two-year term as the body prepares for a late August election date.

However, even with the polls more than three months away the organisation is bracing for what is already expected to be a heated race between current general secretary Rudolph Speid and member of the technical committee and former FIFA referee Peter Prendergast.

According to Stephenson, who returned as head of the organisation in 2004, following a previous stint which lasted from 1996-2000, his executive will leave the association on a solid footing and having already achieved its mandate must make way for a new generation with fresh ideas.

Mission accomplished

"I indicated in the manifesto that we had a four-year programme to revive the association and regain our prominence as the leading confederation in the country.

"We think that the mission has been accomplished and it is time to pass the baton." he added.

Pointing to some of the administration's achievements over the past four years, Stephenson said they took office with KSAFA in the red to the tune of $1.5 million and only one sponsor for their competitions. According to the president that debt was cleared within the first year and, with all competitions now sponsored, the income generated since then is $42 million. Stephenson also pointed to a continued age group development programme, regular council meetings and a recently developed web site.

What are the odds

While admitting that it will take a very capable administration to continue the progress of KSAFA, Stephenson indicated that it was too early for him, personally, to lean towards either candidate.

"Those views I may be prepared to express after we have had a nomination process completed at least one month before the election." he said.

"Who knows what number can play and who may be in and out by that time." he added.

Once out of office the president has promised to turn his attention to family and KSAFA club Real Mona of which he is a vice-president.

"I will take the time to re-energize, take some time out with my family and Real Mona before considering any opportunities which may arise in the 2010 at the JFF Congress." he added.