Police FC Technical Director Mbarak 'Mnyama' Bashatir has expressed concerns over the delay in starting the 2026/27 FKF Premier League season due to a dispute. The new campaign was initially scheduled to start on August 22 but was postponed amid a dispute over whether the 2019 or 2025 FKF rules should apply to the promotion and relegation of teams. Bashatir warned that the prolonged dispute could have wider consequences for Kenyan football.
The dispute has resulted in two High Court orders presenting FKF with fresh legal hurdles. The Murang’a High Court halted the scheduled Saturday kick-off, with Justice Dorah Chepkwony directing that the league should not begin before a promotion and relegation playoff between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United, based on the 2019 regulations. This has created uncertainty among clubs, players, sponsors, and fans.
Bashatir urged Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed to move swiftly to resolve the dispute. He emphasized that Kenya is a big country and football affects a vast number of people, and leaders need to resolve their differences without resorting to court battles or conflict. Bashatir noted that the players have been well-prepared through pre-season training, and sponsors have invested significant funds in logistics.
The continued uncertainty could undermine confidence among sponsors at a time when Kenya is preparing to host AFCON 2027 alongside Uganda and Tanzania. Bashatir expressed fear that the infighting could instill fear in sponsors regarding continued investment in Kenyan football. He emphasized that leaders must come together and resolve their differences without resorting to the courts.
Bashatir's comments come as FKF continues to navigate the legal disputes surrounding the league's start. The delay in starting the season has demoralized players, sponsors, and fans. Bashatir stressed that the sport is far more important than any individual and that leaders need to act with respect, prudence, and wisdom.
The dispute has significant implications for Kenyan football, particularly with AFCON 2027 approaching. Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are set to host the tournament, and Bashatir is concerned that the infighting could affect the country's image. He urged leaders to prioritize the growth of football in Kenya.
The FKF Premier League season remains uncertain, with clubs, players, sponsors, and fans awaiting clarity on when the new campaign will finally begin. Bashatir's call for swift resolution of the dispute is echoed by stakeholders who are eager to see the season kick off. The delay has already had a significant impact on the football community in Kenya.
Key points
- Police FC Technical Director Mbarak 'Mnyama' Bashatir urges FKF to resolve league dispute
- The dispute has resulted in two High Court orders presenting FKF with fresh legal hurdles
- The delay in starting the season has demoralized players, sponsors, and fans
