Joshua Onyango (L) of Gor Mahia FC contest for the ball with Austin Odongo of Shabana FC during their FKF Premier League match at Gusii Stadium in Kisii county on May 04, 2025.
A fresh storm is brewing in the FKF Premier League after Shabana FC lodged a strong protest against the Football Kenya Federation’s decision to relocate their January home fixture against Gor Mahia from Gusii Stadium to the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
In a sharply worded statement, the Gusii-based club accused FKF of making a unilateral decision that undermines sporting integrity and hands their opponents an unfair advantage.
FKF’s move is rooted in security concerns following a troubled chapter in the rivalry. On May 4, 2025, a match between the two sides at Gusii Stadium descended into chaos after crowd violence left more than 70 fans injured. The encounter, which Gor Mahia won 1-0, was eventually abandoned.
However, Shabana argue that safety considerations should not override the principle of home advantage, particularly without consultation.
“Kasarani Stadium and Nyayo National Stadium are officially registered home grounds for Gor Mahia FC,” the club said. “It is unacceptable for our home fixture to be changed unilaterally and relocated to our opponent’s home ground without prior notice, justification, or consultation.”
The club maintains that relocating the match effectively converts the fixture into a home game for Gor Mahia, describing FKF’s failure to engage them as a breach of transparency and fairness.
“Football is a game of fairness, and its administration should not be handled with fear or favouritism towards any team,” the statement added, insisting the decision lacks the “integrity of competition.”
Despite FKF’s preference for a larger and more secure venue, Shabana say they have not received any formal communication explaining the relocation and therefore still consider Gusii Stadium the rightful venue for the fixture.
The controversy comes at a time when both teams are level on 23 points in the league standings, although Gor Mahia sit higher due to superior goal difference and having two games in hand. However, K’Ogalo’s played matches remain subject to a ruling by the FKF Disciplinary Committee following the abandonment of their clash against Nairobi United.
As the January showdown approaches, FKF faces mounting pressure to balance fan safety with the rights of home teams — a decision that could set a far-reaching precedent for the FKF Premier League.
