FKF Suspends Three Referees Over Poor Officiating In SportPesa League
Sports Updated: 09 May 2026 12:20 EAT
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The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has suspended and demoted three referees following investigations into controversial decisions made during recent SportPesa Premier League matches. The action was taken after the FKF Referees Committee and the Instructors’ Technical Group reviewed match footage, assessors’ reports and technical evaluations from several league fixtures.
FKF confirmed that the review meeting was held virtually on February 3, 2026, with officials examining performances from different match officials across the top-flight league. The federation stated that the exercise was aimed at protecting the integrity of Kenyan football and ensuring referees maintain high professional standards.
The three officials sanctioned are referee Susan Nyambura, assistant referee Jane Cherono and referee Emmanuel Ochieng. According to FKF, the trio made critical errors during matches that were considered influential to the final outcome and below the expected officiating standards in the SportPesa League.
Two matches were highlighted during the review process — the clash between KCB FC and Tusker FC, as well as the encounter involving Shabana FC and Bandari FC. FKF stated that controversial decisions made during the games prompted complaints and triggered a deeper technical assessment by the referees’ department.
As part of the disciplinary measures, the three referees have been removed from handling SportPesa League fixtures and reassigned to National Super League matches for the next five rounds. FKF said the move is intended to give the officials time to improve while remaining under close supervision and evaluation.
The federation further explained that match commissioners and referees’ instructors will continue monitoring the officials during the demotion period. Detailed performance reports will be submitted before any decision is made on whether the referees can return to top-tier league assignments.
FKF also reviewed the performances of several other match officials, including FIFA referee Kelvin Maina, Evans Kirimi and Lucy Juma. Although their decisions were not deemed serious enough for suspension, the federation raised concerns over inconsistency, weak match control and hesitation during critical moments.
The three officials who avoided suspension were instead issued verbal warnings and advised to improve their authority, positioning and interpretation of the Laws of the Game. FKF warned that future appointments for league matches will depend on improved performances and positive technical evaluations.
In the same statement, FKF announced the reinstatement of assistant referee Jackson Opiayo to SportPesa League duties after earlier being demoted to the National Super League. The federation said recent assessments showed notable improvement in his officiating standards, decision-making and match management, leading to his return to top-flight football.
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FELIX MAKONA
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