Shabana FC slam FKF over decision to move Gor Mahia clash to Kasarani

A fresh storm is brewing in the FKF Premier League after Shabana FC strongly protested 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 compromises sporting integrity and hands their opponents an unfair advantage.

The federation’s caution stems from a dark chapter in the rivalry. On May 4, 2025, a meeting between the two sides at Gusii Stadium dissolved into chaos. That match, which Gor Mahia won 1-0, was marred by violence that left over 70 fans injured and forced a premature ending.

However, Shabana argue that security concerns should not override the principle of home advantage, especially without consultation.

“Kasarani Stadium and Nyayo Stadium are officially registered home grounds for Gor Mahia FC,” the club stated. “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 insists that relocating the match effectively turns the fixture into a home game for Gor Mahia and described FKF’s lack of communication 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, emphasizing that the move lacks the "integrity of competition”.

Despite FKF’s push for a larger and more secure venue, Shabana maintain that they have not received any formal correspondence explaining the relocation and therefore still consider Gusii Stadium as the legitimate venue.

The controversy comes with both sides level on 23 points, although Gor Mahia sit higher on the table due to superior goal difference and two games in hand. However, K’Ogalo’s matches played remain subject to an FKF Disciplinary Committee ruling following the abandonment of their clash against Nairobi United.

As the January fixture draws closer, FKF faces the difficult task of balancing fan safety concerns with the rights of a home team — a decision that could set a significant precedent for the league.