Shabana FC has found itself at the center of controversy after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Leagues and Competitions Committee imposed stringent sanctions following fan unrest at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. These sanctions, which include playing five home matches behind closed doors, have sparked an immediate and urgent appeal from Shabana’s legal team to the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT). The club is seeking to have these sanctions overturned or suspended, particularly as they prepare for a highly anticipated homecoming match at Gusii Stadium, their first Kenyan Premier League fixture at the venue in 18 years.
The Incident: Fan Unrest at Ulinzi Sports Complex
The sanctions against Shabana FC stem from incidents of hooliganism that erupted during their recent match against Ulinzi Stars at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. The game ended in a 2-2 draw, but the late equalizer scored by Ulinzi, coupled with what Shabana fans believed was biased officiating, triggered outrage in the stands.
Fans reacted with frustration, and in the chaos that followed, several seats at the stadium were damaged, and two police officers were injured while trying to manage the situation. The aftermath led the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee to swiftly impose penalties on the club, citing the need to uphold discipline and prevent future disruptions.
FKF Sanctions: A Blow to Shabana’s Season
The sanctions levied against Shabana FC include a directive to play their next five home matches behind closed doors, starting with their upcoming fixture against Posta Rangers. This means that fans will be barred from attending the match, a significant blow to Shabana’s loyal supporters who have eagerly awaited their return to Gusii Stadium.
In addition to the closed-door matches, the FKF committee has ordered Shabana FC to pay for the damages caused at Ulinzi Sports Complex. The club is also required to cover the medical expenses of the two injured police officers, with Ulinzi Stars expected to provide receipts for the costs incurred.
Shabana’s Urgent Appeal to the Sports Disputes Tribunal
In response to the sanctions, Shabana FC has wasted no time in filing an appeal through their legal team, Steve Ombasa and Company Advocates. The appeal, lodged with the Sports Disputes Tribunal, seeks to overturn or suspend the sanctions pending a full hearing. Shabana’s legal representatives argue that the punishment is too harsh and that it unfairly impacts the club’s ability to perform and connect with its fanbase, especially with the significance of their return to Gusii Stadium.
The urgency of the appeal is clear: Shabana FC’s officials are hoping for a favorable ruling that would allow fans to attend the upcoming match against Posta Rangers. The appeal also points out that while fan behavior is a concern, the club has taken steps to address the issue and should not be punished to such an extent that it impacts the players and the larger fanbase.
The Importance of Gusii Stadium: A Historic Homecoming
One of the most significant aspects of this appeal is its timing. Shabana FC’s scheduled match against Posta Rangers at Gusii Stadium marks the club’s first Premier League home game at the iconic venue in 18 years. For many fans, this game is not just another fixture on the calendar—it’s a long-awaited homecoming after years of playing home games at alternative venues, including the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay.
The renovations at Gusii Stadium had kept Shabana FC away for several seasons, but with the upgrades complete, the club had been preparing to mobilize fans for a historic return. The excitement surrounding the match had reached fever pitch, with supporters eager to fill the stands and cheer on their team. The FKF sanctions now threaten to turn this long-anticipated moment into a disappointment, with fans potentially forced to stay away from the stadium.
ALSO READ:
- Shabana FC Fans Decide on Ticket Prices Ahead of FKF Premier League’s Return to Gusii Stadium After 18-Year Wait
- Shabana FC Returns to Gusii Stadium for FKF Premier League Matches After 18 Years
- Five Major Takeaways from FKF Premier League Matchweek 3: Shabana’s Fan Revival, Sydney Lokale’s Impact, and More
The Impact on Fans and the Local Community
The potential absence of fans from Gusii Stadium would not only affect the morale of Shabana FC players but also have a broader impact on the local community. Football has long been a unifying force in the region, with Gusii Stadium serving as a cultural and sporting hub for the people of Kisii County.
Local businesses, particularly those around the stadium, had been expecting a surge in activity and economic benefits from the match. For many small business owners, matchday revenue from fans visiting the stadium represents a significant portion of their income. If the appeal is unsuccessful and the closed-door order stands, these businesses will undoubtedly feel the pinch.
What’s Next: The Tribunal’s Role and Possible Outcomes
Shabana FC’s appeal is now in the hands of the Sports Disputes Tribunal, led by John Ohaga. The tribunal is expected to consider the urgency of the case, given the upcoming match, and deliver a decision on whether to suspend the sanctions pending a full hearing. If the tribunal rules in Shabana’s favor, the club will be able to host Posta Rangers at Gusii Stadium with fans in attendance, much to the delight of the club’s supporters.
RALLYING CALL TO OUR FANS
Tujaze Gusii Stadium Sato.
Shabana Fc VS Posta Rangers Fc
3PM EAT.
Tickets will be sold physically
Regular 200/-
VIP 500/-
VVIP 1,000/-
Nunua ticket jenga team. pic.twitter.com/IHMuhQN4D2
— Shabana Fc Kenya (@Shabanafckenya) September 25, 2024
However, if the appeal is unsuccessful, Shabana FC will be forced to play the match behind closed doors, and the sanctions will likely remain in effect for the following four home games as well. This could have lasting consequences for the club’s momentum, fan engagement, and financial standing over the course of the season.
Shabana’s Start to the 2024/25 Season
Shabana FC has played two matches so far this season, both ending in draws. They began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bidco United before the dramatic 2-2 stalemate with Ulinzi Stars. The team is yet to register a win, but fans had been looking forward to a potential victory at Gusii Stadium—an event that now hangs in the balance due to the imposed sanctions.
The Importance of a Favorable Ruling
As Shabana FC awaits the decision from the Sports Disputes Tribunal, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For the club, its players, and its passionate fanbase, a favorable ruling would restore the excitement of their return to Gusii Stadium and allow them to resume the season with their supporters by their side.
With the potential for five closed-door matches looming, the importance of overturning the sanctions is clear. Shabana’s appeal is not just about mitigating punishment—it’s about preserving the spirit of football and the connection between the club and its fans. Only time will tell whether the tribunal’s decision will keep the doors of Gusii Stadium open for Shabana’s long-awaited homecoming.
