KPL pays FKF Sh5m as league debate rages on

FKF Press Conference From Left-Sofapaka FC Chairman Elly Kalekwa, FKF President Sam Nyamweya, CEO KPL Jack Oguda and Ambrose Rachier Chairman Gor Mahia consult during after emerging from a meeting with FKF NEC to discuss the violence that engulfed the KLP match against Gor in Machakos last sunday on Tuesday, October 28th. 2014. Photo/Jonah Onyango.

Kenyan Premier League (KPL) has paid the national association Sh5.2 million, but controversy still remains on the number of teams that will feature in next season’s top league.

The money is a percentage of the league and broadcast rights and was paid on Monday just days after the two parties signed a memorandum of understanding.

KCB chairman George Odhiambo said the company had no choice but to pay the money as it was a pending obligation.

“The money was supposed to have been paid at the beginning of the season but we have been holding on to it due to the fact that we were waiting to be re-admitted back to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), which happened.

“We were also waiting to sign the memorandum of understanding and after that happened last week, there is no reason to hold onto the money anymore,” he said.

Odhiambo also confirmed that they had agreed with FKF to promote two teams and relegate another two.

“This was an important part of the agreement and we insisted on it before signing the memorandum,” he said.

But FKF chairman Sam Nyamweya insisted there was no agreement yet on the composition of the top league next season.

“We have not agreed on 16 teams. As a federation, we have been pushing for an expanded league and will not go back on our quest,” he said.

Elsewhere, Kenya Football Referees Association chairman GMT Ottieno, has hit out at Muhoroni Youth head Moses Adagala for inciting his fans to attack a centre referee Nasor Doka during last Friday’s match at Nyayo Stadium.

Muhoroni Youth won the match 3-2 but Adagala complained bitterly over alleged poor officiating.

In a statement to the media, Ottieno accused the Muhoroni Youth chairman of having a habit of always attacking match officials.

“Only a week ago, his own coach claimed that they lost to Gor Mahia due to poor officiating yet they got a penalty, but failed to convert,” he said. Muhoroni lost the tie 3-0.

But contacted Adagala said: “The issue of officiating is getting out of hand and instead of accusing my team, people like GMT Ottieno should seek for solutions to resolve the same.”