In a dramatic escalation of tensions between fans and the governing body of Kenyan football, Shabana FC supporters have announced plans to boycott all away matches as a means of protest against the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). The decision, shared on Facebook by renowned grassroots football journalist Brian Odhiambo, comes in response to what fans perceive as a blatant disregard for their interests and a failure to prioritize the growth of the sport.
Shabana fans have expressed their frustration with the FKF’s lack of support for clubs and their supporters. Despite making significant sacrifices to attend matches, fans have observed a complete absence of efforts by the federation to create a more welcoming and engaging atmosphere for spectators. This neglect, coupled with allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the FKF, has fueled growing discontent among fans.
One of the key grievances raised by Shabana fans is the alleged involvement of cartels in the management of the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee. These cartels are accused of hiring goons to vandalize stadium facilities, a tactic believed to be aimed at extorting fines from clubs. Such actions, fans argue, not only damage the reputation of Kenyan football but also create a hostile environment for supporters.
In addition to the boycott, Shabana fans have joined forces with other football stakeholders to demand that the FKF address the issue of poor officiating in the FKF Premier League. Referees, they argue, play a crucial role in determining the outcome of matches, and their decisions must be fair and impartial. Recent complaints from multiple teams regarding biased officiating have raised serious concerns about the credibility of the competition.
The fans’ call for action comes when Kenyan football faces a significant electoral period in the offing. The poor officiating standards and the FKF’s mismanagement threaten to hinder the sport’s growth and discourage potential investors. If the federation fails to respond to the concerns raised by fans and stakeholders, it risks further alienating supporters and damaging the reputation of Kenyan football both domestically and internationally.
