FKF addresses chaos that marred Gor Mahia trophy presentation at Kasarani
Upon winning their unprecedented 20th title yesterday, thousands of Gor Mahia fans poured onto the pitch in celebration of the team wining the Kenyan Premier League title.
With unbound joy, the fans sang and danced, ran about the field, making it difficult for the award ceremony to commence and causing a security risk to some VVIP guests including ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo.
Today, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) addressed the harsh criticism directed their way after they abandoned plans to award the team before fans and opted for a VIP lounge within the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, facilities to host the award ceremony.
“It is important to note that Football Kenya Federation (FKF) had made arrangements to celebrate and crown the league winners at both Kasarani and Mumias stadiums. At the Kasarani stadium, all the necessary elements including the Champions podium, arc, red carpet, Champions pause banner, models, and confetti had been set up, ready for the coronation ceremony to commence.
However, a large number of enthusiastic fans overwhelmed the security measures in place and invaded the pitch.
Efforts to remove the fans from the field proved challenging due to their sheer numbers and determination to be a part of the celebration. Under these circumstances, a decision was made to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to proceed with the awarding of medals and the trophy to Gor Mahia at the VIP area. It is worth noting that similar arrangements had also been made at the Mumias Complex where Tusker was playing against Vihiga,” said the FKF in part.
The Federation went on, “These preparations were not limited to Gor Mahia alone but were intended to acknowledge and honour the league winner in a fitting manner. While the fan invasion disrupted the original plan for the coronation ceremony, the decision to adapt and award the team in a controlled environment was made in the best interest of all parties involved.”
K’Ogalo, as the champions are otherwise referred to, beat Nairobi City Stars to post a straight forward 4-1 win. Tusker FC settled for second place in the league standings after thrashing the already relegated Vihiga Bullets 4-0 at the Mumias Sports Complex. Police settled for third place, while Nzoia, KCB, Bandari and AFC Leopards finished fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh respectively.
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