Solanki challenges Cricket Kenya's decision to suspend him

Suspended Cricket Kenya (CK)  treasurer Kalpesh Solanki has vehemently contested Cricket Kenya's decision to bundle him out of office.

At the core of Solanki's contention is the assertion that the AGM held over the weekend, where a new treasurer was allegedly elected, was conducted in violation of court orders.

According to his attorney, Danstan Omari, the Cricket Kenya board failed to disclose critical information regarding a pending tribunal case that had previously reinstated Solanki.

This oversight, he argues, raises significant questions about the transparency and accountability of the governing body. The Sports Disputes Tribunal had ruled in favour of Solanki, reinstating him to his position.

However, this ruling was put on hold by the High Court, allowing for an appeal. Solanki claims that despite this stay, the CK board proceeded to convene a Special General Meeting (SGM), which he argues was not permissible under the court's directives.

The SGM, held at Ruaraka Sports Club on May 24, allegedly addressed key items directly related to Solanki's role, including the approval of financial reports for the fiscal year 2023-2024 and the ratification of his suspension.

However, according to Solanki, the SGM was not permitted by the court.

“Despite clear directions from this Honourable Court staying execution of the tribunal’s decision, the board convened an SGM with key agenda items directly involving my former role as treasurer,” court documents state.

According to reports, the meeting, which took place at Ruaraka Sports Club, covered topics including the approval of financial reports for the fiscal year 2023–2024, when Solanki was still in office, and the ratification of his suspension. 

Solanki contends that holding a meeting of such significance without his presence, particularly when it involved discussions of his role and responsibilities, was fundamentally unjust.

He said the principles of fair play, which are central to the ethos of sports, should extend beyond the playing field to the boardroom as well. 

He is requesting that the court declare all resolutions adopted at the SGM void until the tribunal's decision is heard substantively. The governing body has faced its share of challenges, particularly in the realm of governance.

The sport, which enjoys a passionate following, has been plagued by leadership disputes that threaten its stability and growth.

The recent events surrounding Solanki's suspension and the subsequent AGM have brought these issues to the forefront, raising questions about the integrity of the governing body and the adherence to legal frameworks.