Frustration over last minute change of venue for Thika Town Football Tournament

The decision is alleged to have been influenced by political differences between Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and Thika Town Member of Parliament Alice Ng'ang'a, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and disappointment among the players and spectators.

The Thika Stadium, initially chosen as the venue for the tournament, was suddenly rendered inaccessible after the county government allegedly deposited heaps of sand, manure and goalposts removed, ostensibly to prevent the event from taking place due to the political rivalry between the governor and the MP.

As a result, players found themselves stranded, unsure of where to go or how to proceed with the tournament.

The last-minute change has not only caused logistical challenges but has also affected the players psychologically.

Led by Lawrence Gitau, the players questioned the motive behind the decision to sabotage the event by deliberately obstructing access to the designated venue.

“Mentally, we knew we are playing at Thika stadium, everything was set and some of us were excited that we are going to play at Thika stadium for the first time but then the venue has been changed. We feel disappointed and we do not want political differences to affect football in Thika or in any other place, it’s a shame.” he highlighted.

The controversy surrounding the tournament has cast a shadow over the local sporting community, highlighting the detrimental effects of political interference in sports.

Despite the challenges and setbacks, the much-anticipated Thika Town Constituency football final will take place on Sunday, at Thika High school gounds, barely two kilometers away from Thika stadium.

Thika Homeboyz will lock horns with Ndula FC, with Transport Cabinet Secretary Murkomen Kipchumba set to grace the event.