A Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) match between Shabana FC and Gor Mahia FC descended into chaos on Sunday at the Gusii Stadium, prompting strong condemnation from Gor Mahia Football Club. The club has issued a public statement decrying the violence and questioning the decision to proceed with the match despite clear security concerns.
In a press release dated May 5, 2025, Gor Mahia FC described the incidents as “pre-planned attacks” that led to “serious injuries that warranted medical attention” for several of their fans and supporters.
“To those who suffered injuries, the EC takes the opportunity to wish you quick and speedy recovery,” the club’s Executive Committee stated.
According to Gor Mahia, their earlier concerns over the safety of the venue were dismissed, even after local security personnel had flagged the Gusii Stadium as a High Risk match location.
“Despite having registered a legitimate concern… they chose not to take it seriously,” the club said, blaming the match officials and the FKF for ignoring the risks on the ground.
Gor Mahia also raised alarm over the handling of the match day security and the role of the home team. “Clearly from the observations witnessed yesterday where the home team stewards were all over the pitch with batons exposed fully to the glare of all, it is evident that Shabana FC as the home team was in serious violation,” the statement read.
The club further claimed that match proceedings continued under controversial circumstances. “Despite the OCPD advising against proceeding with the match… the Commissioner stated he had received instructions from FKF to go ahead at all costs.”
The match was reportedly halted five times due to the throwing of “missiles, bottles, and other harmful objects” onto the field — acts the Gor Mahia EC believes could have been prevented had Shabana FC made adequate preparations.
Calling on the Football Kenya Federation to take firm action, the club emphasized the need to “ensure that the rules and regulations governing Kenyan football are adhered to fully so that such unbecoming behavior is stamped out completely.”
“It was a big shame to see a football match turned into a battleground in the full glare given that there was live broadcast,” the statement concluded.