Police FC TD Bashatir warns league dispute could hurt players, fans and sponsors

Kenya Police FC Technical Director Mbarak ‘Mnyama’ Bashatir has urged Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed to move swiftly to resolve the dispute delaying the start of the 2026/27 FKF Premier League season.

The new campaign was thrown into further uncertainty last Friday after two High Court orders presented FKF with fresh legal hurdles.

The Murang’a High Court halted the scheduled Saturday kick-off, with Justice Dorah Chepkwony directing that the league should not begin before a promotion and relegation playoff between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United, based on the 2019 regulations.

Bashatir warned that the prolonged dispute could have wider consequences for Kenyan football, particularly for players, fans and sponsors who have already invested time and resources ahead of the new season.

“Kenya is a big country, and football affects a vast number of people. Leaders need to resolve their differences without resorting to court battles or conflict, as this tarnishes Kenya's image. If you look closely, you will see that the players have been well-prepared through pre-season training, and sponsors have invested significant funds in logistics. When conflicts like this arise, we demoralise players, sponsors, and fans,” Bashatir said.

The 2026/27 season was initially scheduled to start on August 22 but was postponed amid a dispute over whether the 2019 or 2025 FKF rules should apply to the promotion and relegation of teams.

Bashatir says the continued uncertainty could also undermine confidence among sponsors at a time when Kenya is preparing to host AFCON 2027 alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

“We particularly instil fear in sponsors regarding continued investment in our football, especially now, with AFCON 2027 approaching. How will our neighbours view us? Leaders must come together and resolve their differences without resorting to the courts, as the sport is far more important than any individual. We do not want infighting; we want football to grow, and we need our leaders to act with respect, prudence, and wisdom so that our sport can reach new heights.”

Bashatir's comments come as FKF continues to navigate the legal disputes surrounding the league's start, with clubs, players, sponsors and fans awaiting clarity on when the new campaign will finally begin.