The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving refereeing standards, ensuring fairness, integrity, and professionalism in Kenyan football.
This follows a rising number of violent incidents against match officials, the latest being an attack on a policewoman by a Migori Youth FC fan, allegedly linked to match-fixing.
Ad-Hoc Committee Report Exposes Deep-Rooted Issues
A recent assessment by the FKF Transitional Ad-Hoc Committee, led by FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga, has exposed major concerns affecting Kenyan football, including:
- Financial mismanagement
- Match-fixing & referee bribery
- Hooliganism & rising cases of violence
- Officiating scandals
The investigation revealed systematic referee manipulation, increasing allegations of bribery, and match-fixing, fueling fan unrest and violence at local matches.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed acknowledged these issues, stating:
“Referees face serious challenges, including bribery allegations, match-fixing, and lack of professionalism. These issues have severely damaged the integrity of the sport. Additionally, rising violence and disruptive behavior at matches have raised safety concerns.”
FKF’s 11 Key Resolutions to Restore Refereeing Integrity
- Referee Vetting & Data Collection – A structured vetting and data collection system will be implemented for all referees in FKF leagues.
- Policy Development – A comprehensive policy document will be developed to guide refereeing operations.
- Fixture Management – The FKF Leagues & Competition Manager will enforce strict fixture discipline to prevent unnecessary disruptions.
- Referee Payments – An audit of outstanding payments from previous administrations will be conducted, with verified dues settled—priority given to payments under the new administration.
- Digitization & Transparency – A digital referee appointment system will be introduced to enhance fairness and efficiency.
- Promotion & Rewards – A performance-based promotion system will be established to recognize top-performing referees.
- Security & Anti-Hooliganism – FKF will collaborate with security agencies to protect referees and hold clubs accountable for acts of hooliganism.
- Referee Welfare – A Service Level Agreement (SLA) will be introduced to ensure timely referee payments after submitting match reports. Additionally, referees will receive annual gym subscriptions to maintain fitness.
- Branch Officials’ Influence – FKF will eliminate undue interference by branch officials in referee appointments and promotions.
- Technology-Driven Promotion – A data-driven approach will be adopted for referee assessments and career progression.
- Committee Collaboration – The National Referees Committee and Appointment Committee will work together to ensure effective leadership and accountability.
ALSO READ: FKF assessment uncovers Ksh 384 Million debt, match-fixing, and officiating scandals
