FKF pardons Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards fans

Football Kenya Federation has confirmed that both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards’ fans will be allowed to watch matches in Kisumu and Mumias

Football Kenya Federation has confirmed that both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards’ fans will be allowed to watch their weekend matches in Kisumu and Mumias respectively.

FKF President Sam Nyamweya has revealed to Goal that both teams have petitioned against decision to ban fans from watching their matches and that the federations is reviewing the same.

“Both clubs have lodged appeals with us after the ban and we are looking at it. Until both appeals are heard and dispensed with, the decision to ban fans from attending matches shall not be enforced and therefore, supporters are at liberty to attend respective matches against Muhoroni Youth and Sofapaka FC.

“However, both clubs are reminded of their inalienable obligation to ensure that their supporters conduct does not undermine integrity of football and any contravention of this spirit bears grave consequences. Further, we remind home teams of their duty to provide above board security and take no chances with safety before, during and after the matches in question.”

Both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards’ fans were banned from watching remaining two matches following crowd trouble on different occasions. AFC Leopards’ fans went on the rampage during their GOtv Shield match against Sofapaka at City Stadium while Gor Mahia fans caused chaos during their defeat to same team in Machakos last Sunday.

Gor Mahia petitioned FKF on Wednesday with club secretary Chris Omondi stating, "The executive have petitioned FKF for a review of ruling that they made on Tuesday 28th Oct 2014 based on the evidence the club has received.

"Also based on the new information emerging of what really transpired in Machakos. If need be the club will make an appeal if the ruling is not fair. The club will therefore, give a comprehensive statement once we receive the result of the petition from FKF."

Omondi also pointed out that the move to ban fans from the stadium does not promote the growth and development of football in the country. "We believe the federation will not be promoting football by banning us to play in an empty stadium considering that we have our own financial challenges."