NAIROBI, Kenya, November 14- Gor Mahia will henceforth play their matches at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani until the club establishes a detailed security plan for their fixtures with possible heavy penalties in store following the fracas that broke out after K’Ogalo failed to clinch the league title on Saturday.
At the same time, pay television service providers and Tusker Premier League broadcast sponsors SuperSport have lifted their ban on airing K’Ogalo matches according to Football Kenya Federation (FKF) chairman, Sam Nyamweya.
Consequently, their FKF semi final against archrivals AFC Leopards will be televised live in a development that comes a day after SuperSport pulled the plug on Gor for the third time last weekend following incidents of hooliganism against their crew and equipment by sections of the Green Army support.
“SuperSport temporarily lifts the ban on televising matches involving Gor Mahia until investigations are concluded and FKF and Kenyan Premier League (KPL) disciplinary bodies deliberate and submit their decision next Friday,” Nyamweya said in his communique.
The latest sanctions against K’Ogalo stem from claims that SuperSport crew were assaulted at their City Stadium home in addition to damaging the broadcaster’s equipment after their team lost the premier league title following a 1-1 draw against Thika United.
Businesses and transporters also reported losses estimated at millions as well as unsubstantiated reports that two people lost their lives as alleged Gor fans went on rampage on Nairobi’s Jogoo Road and Central Business District.
FKF has given Gor a December 30 ultimatum to put in place a detailed safety and security plan as well as an anti hooliganism policy that will appeal to both the federation and league management body.
“We will also initiate the process of identifying the perpetrators and hooligans with the help of the police, Gor Mahia, supporters and the public,” Nyamweya added.
The federation chief reiterated that clubs were responsible for their fans actions as he urged them to sensitise their supporters on the essence of having a safe and secure environment for football.
The resolutions were arrived at a meeting convened by FKF, KPL and SuperSport to deliberate on the matter on Wednesday.
Tusker and Sofapaka will feature in the other semi on Sunday with the final set for Tuesday week at the same venue.
On Monday, Gor secretary, George Bwana, absolved K’Ogalo from blame saying they were yet to receive any complaints on the losses incurred by concerned victims besides the fact that most alleged incidents took place outside the City Stadium.
