In a major setback for Kenyan champions Gor Mahia FC, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has revoked the club’s license due to outstanding dues owed to its former players.
The decision puts the team’s participation in the CAF Champions League at risk and may also affect their eligibility for the next season’s league.
The FKF’s decision to revoke Gor Mahia’s license was based on Article 16 8(b) of the CAF Club licensing regulations, which allows for the withdrawal of a license if any conditions are no longer met or if the licensee violates its obligations under the club licensing regulations.
The club had been given a deadline of 5 pm on Thursday to settle the dues owed to former players Sando Yangayay, Adama Keita, and Jules Ulimwengu. However, they failed to meet the deadline, leading to the revocation of their license.
Under new CAF rules, all clubs participating in continental competitions must be licensed by their local First Instance Body (FIB) and meet specific conditions, including ensuring timely payment of former and current players.
A source within the Federation revealed that the revocation of Gor Mahia’s license could also lead to their exclusion from the national league.
“If clubs fail to meet the licensing requirements, they will not be allowed to participate in the Premier League. The Federation may have no choice but to omit them from the league, along with any other club that fails to satisfy the stipulated requirements,” the source stated.
In response to the FKF’s decision, Gor Mahia FC has written an appeal seeking reinstatement and confirming that all overdue payments to the former players have been settled. They hope for a quick decision from the Federation to reinstate their club in the CAF Inter-Club Competition.
As the draw for the Champions League and Confederation Cup approaches, the fate of Gor Mahia FC remains uncertain. It remains to be seen whether CAF will admit them to the draw or ask the FKF to replace them with another eligible team.
“There is a possibility that Tusker might be asked to step up, but nothing is certain. The final decision rests with CAF,” added the source within the Federation.
