By Wilfred Kizito
Kenya has been slapped with a Ksh. 2.5 million fine by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following serious breaches of stadium security during a CHAN 2024 qualifier match against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Fans defied established safety protocols at the Kasarani Stadium by forcefully breaking in, resulting in CAF imposing disciplinary action against Kenya.
According to CAF regulations, any failure to guarantee crowd control and matchday security constitutes a violation, which may result in penalties ranging from fines to match bans.
The penalty has drawn sharp criticism from regional football stakeholders, with many calling for improved crowd management and accountability from match organizers.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security, Dr. Raymond Omollo, issued a stern warning in response to the incident, emphasizing that fan behaviour must be kept in check both inside and outside the stadium.
“Any breaches even outside the stadium can result in consequences, including formal warnings, penalties or disqualification from future bids. We will respond immediately to any form of irregularities in the future,” said Principal Secretary, Dr. Raymond Omollo.
The government is now urging fans to be disciplined and to adhere to safety regulations to protect Kenya’s standing as a host for international matches.
The warning also comes amid Kenya’s continued efforts to position itself as a future host for major African football events.