Football Kenya Federation (FKF) have appointed Michael Esakwa the chief executive officer of the federation on a permanent basis with immediate effect.

A statement from the Kenya FA confirmed the appointment of Esakwa, who has been the federation's deputy secretary general. He now takes over from Joseph Agola, who was the acting CEO. "Agola will continue with his duties as the federation's finance Officer. The appointment of Esakwa was endorsed by the federation's chairman and the NEC Members and approved by the world football governing body, FIFA)," said the statement in part.

A letter from Fifa signed by Thierry Regnus in charge of member association, also confirmed the endorsement by the world governing body on Esakwa's appointment. "We acknowledge the appointment of Esakwa as the Kenya FA secretary general, owing to his long experience as a football administrator. We believe he will be able to steer the federation into greater heights and as Fifa we recommend his appointment."

The appointment marks the pinnacle of a swift rise for the former secretary general of the Nairobi branch loved by many in the game for his easy going demeanor as well as professionalism in running football since he returned to football after a four year sabbatical.

Meanwhile, a group purporting to have taken over the running of AFC Leopards football club yesterday reinstated Jan Koops as the AFC Leopards coach. The group who were elected into office on Monday chaired by Wamukowa Opwora said Koops had done well under tough condition and deserved to still take charge of the team.

The Ducthman, who was present urged the technical bench to work closely with the new executive committee in order to help the club improve on last year's performance. "I am happy to be back at the club. I will continue to work hard to improve the club and to that effect, we will be working with top professionals from Holland to improve our technical capacity," said Koops.

The team said team will be training at the University of Nairobi grounds under Koops alongside the technical bench appointed recently of Tom Olaba and team manager Nicholas Muyoti.