FOOTBALL: GOR MAHIA AND LEOPARDS TO KNOW IF SPORTPESA WILL STAY WITH THEM
Hooligan acts saw
sponsors pull the plug on the two clubs
Sportpesa, who also sponsor the top flight league, pulled the plug on the two giants’ following acts of violence at their league matches.
On April 23, the AFC Leopards match against Ulinzi Stars at Mumias Complex aborted in the 81st minute due to violence after fans protested a refereeing decision. A week earlier, Gor Mahia’s encounter with Tusker at the Nyayo Stadium was engulfed by similar scenes.
SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri gave hope of their return following a series of meetings with the clubs.
“We’ve had meetings with the clubs’ officials and by tomorrow (today) we will make a decision,” said Karauri.
“However, whether the sponsorship will be reinstated is dependent on the clubs.
“Our meetings have been very positive. Very soon we can conclude and decide to move on with the sponsorship. There are commitments from their side and by the look of things they seem they can deliver on promises,” Karauri added.
Karauri was speaking at a stakeholders’ security meeting where they announced a partnership with the government, alongside Kenya Premier League, geared towards curbing hooliganis, once and for all.
Present during the seminar was permanent secretary ministry of interior and Coordination of national government Micah Pkopus Powon who said the capacity of police officers deployed to SPL matches will be improved through continued training.
Police have in the past been accused of neglecting their duties, overreacting and lacking in crowd control skills in addition to failing to pursue cases when reports are made.
But Powon said: “It is not time for blame. We all need to partner in ensuring security is improved.”
“Anyone caught during acts of hooliganism will definitely face the full force of the law. Training is a continuous process and our officers are in constant training to equip themselves with better crowd control tactics.”
KPL CEO Jack Oguda said they, alongside Football Kenya Federation, are deliberating on pushing for a law that will help curb the vice.
“We are looking at pushing for legislation targeting trouble makers," he said.