Editor's Review

  • Kenya has been fined for the pitch invasion that violates Covid-19 protocols.
  • Kenya has room to appeal the decision.

The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has fined Kenya Sh1 million after Deputy President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga accessed the main pitch during the 2021 Africa Nations Cup qualification match against Comoros in Nairobi.

During the game, Ruto and Odinga invaded the playing area alongside their entourage during the match which ended in a 1-1 draw.

While meeting the players, Ruto announced he had offered the team an Sh1 million token ‘to congratulate them for their efforts in the game’.

In response, CAF released strict protocols barring fans from attending all qualification matches as a way of curbing the spread of Covid-19.

“The dignitaries had heavy security attached to them. They barged through the stewards arranged by Caf security officer. According to CAF Disciplinary Code (Art. 8.2). The host association or club is responsible for order and security both inside and around the stadium before, during and after the match. It is liable for incidents of any kind, and can be rendered subject to disciplinary measures.”

Football Kenya Federation has three days to appeal the decision.