The ongoing tussle between the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and Shabana is hurting the advancement of football in the country.Shabana regained their FKF Premier League status last season after a 17-year absence, much to the delight of their fans.They brought with them a large fanbase, which has energized a league previously dominated in terms of following by Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.##NAJAVA_MECA_8424491##However, some Shabana fans have been involved in unsporting behavior, with several of their matches marred by hooliganism.Last season, FKF warned the club to control its fans, threatening serious consequences if the misconduct continued.On September 22, Ulinzi Stars hosted Shabana at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. Shabana led 2-1 in the final minutes but Ulinzi equalized in the fifth minute of added time.Frustrated fans felt the match should have ended before the equalizer, resulting in vandalism, including the breaking of stadium chairs.On September 23, FKF imposed sanctions on Shabana, including a requirement to play their next five home matches behind closed doors.Shabana challenged this in the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) and received a stay order allowing fans at their historic home match against Posta Rangers on September 28.This was the first FKF Premier League game at Gusii Stadium in 12 years, and Shabana’s first in 18 years.North Korea pile more misery on Junior Starlets with another humblingDespite the stay order, the match faced delays, as officials refused to officiate, citing security concerns.Shabana fans suspected FKF’s involvement in the confusion and, in response, boycotted their away matches, including their 1-0 loss to Mara Sugar on October 19.The conflict between FKF and Shabana FC has several negative consequences:Negative publicityThe clash attracts damaging media attention, tarnishing both sides’ reputations and potentially scaring away sponsors from football in general.Stunted growth in Kenyan footballEnergy and resources that could be used to develop the sport are being diverted into resolving internal disputes, slowing progress in Kenyan football.Former Gor Mahia coach questions Firat’s suitability for Harambee Stars jobReduced Fan Engagement:**Shabana’s fan ban and boycott weakens the emotional connection between the club and its supporters. This impacts both the club’s and the league’s value.##NAJAVA_MECA_8424400##Financial burdenThe fan ban is financially damaging to Shabana, preventing the club from earning revenue from ticket sales. Shabana’s abandoned match against Posta Rangers could have generated over Ksh. 1.5 million.Over five home matches, they risk losing more than Ksh. 5 million. Hosting clubs also lose out on potential revenue from these matches.Reduced player moralePlaying in empty stadiums impacts players’ morale, especially when they are used to playing in front of passionate crowds. The ongoing feud creates a toxic environment that affects player performance.FKFPL Wrap: Kaddu’s brace propels Tusker as Leopards are held by ten-man Kariobangi SharksIn conclusion, FKF and Shabana must find common ground and resolve their differences to protect the future of Kenyan football.Shabana should address fan hooliganism, while FKF must respect court rulings and implement sanctions that prioritize the long-term health of the sport.
