Cash-strapped Kenya Football Federation (KFF) could be mired in deeper financial straits with world governing body FIFA now demanding a refund of over 1.4 million shillings (about 19,417 US dollars) from them, local daily The Standard reported Monday.

According the report, FIFA has written to KFF asking for the refund of grant which was paid to them last year, only three weeks after a similar amount was paid to them.

Curiously, the double payment was made in an individual's bank account in London.

But faced with pressing financial obligations, KFF has requested for further funding, which FIFA has declined until the refund is made.

"It will not be possible for FIFA to organize a Financial Assistance Program (FAP) payment before the repayment of 19,417 dollars, corresponding in double payment made by FIFA on 21-09-2005," said Pascal Torres, head of development management team of the world football body.

FIFA's Article 4 on procedure says disbursement is made by the FIFA general secretariat to the FIFA member's bank account specially set up for the disbursement of FAP funds.

When contacted, KFF Secretary-General, Dan Omino, said he could not respond immediately.

"I must consult further on the matter as it looks sensitive. In order to respond comprehensively, I will need to consult further," said Omino.

Among KFF's immediate needs is hiring of national team Harambee Stars coach and preparing the women's national team to play Cameroon next month in the African Women's Championships qualifying match.