As the race for promotion to the National Super League (NSL) enters its final and most decisive phase, fresh concerns have emerged over the integrity of matches in FKF Division One Zone B.With fewer than ten games left, what should be a celebration of grassroots talent has instead turned into a contest marred by allegations of match manipulation, biased officiating, and administrative favoritism.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsAt the heart of the storm are five top clubs — Gucha Stars, Soy United, Compel, Hillside, and GFE 105 — who currently occupy the top five positions. Sixth-placed Sigalagala Polytechnic also remains mathematically in the race.##NAJAVA_MECA_8860028##However, insiders and observers say the race is being distorted by irregularities that risk discrediting the entire competition.Among the most glaring concerns is the scheduling of home fixtures. Some clubs have been allowed to play three to four consecutive home matches — a highly unusual occurrence in any professional league.Such an arrangement, critics say, provides unfair advantages and points to deeper issues within the league’s administration.Where to watch and how to get tickets for Junior Starlets vs. Cameroon showdownThe uneven distribution of fixtures is only part of a larger problem. Club officials, coaches, and fans have raised red flags about inconsistent refereeing decisions and the lack of transparency around match officials’ selection.There is growing pressure on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to release a public list of the referees who have officiated the top teams’ last four matches — including their qualifications, affiliations, and appointment criteria.Sources have further pointed fingers at Caleb Amwayi, the current chair of the FKF Referees Committee.Several clubs — speaking on condition of anonymity — claim that Amwayi has affiliations with two of the top five teams, casting doubt on the impartiality of referee assignments. While these allegations remain unverified, the perception of bias alone has ignited calls for immediate scrutiny.Future FKF president? President Ruto reveals son’s deep passion for footballA deeper layer of discontent involves claims of political influence within the federation. Some clubs allege that teams that supported the ‘Team Fresh Start’ faction during FKF’s last internal elections have been shown preferential treatment — both in officiating and in disciplinary rulings.“The league is in a total mess,” said one club representative, who asked to remain anonymous. “It looks like it’s already decided who will go to NSL. The rulings, the match appointments — it all seems scripted. Teams that backed Team Fresh get away with anything. They attack referees, assault media personnel, and face no consequences.”Such claims were further fueled by a controversial decision involving Sigalagala Polytechnic, who were recently awarded three points and two goals while their stadium was simultaneously banned from hosting matches.##NAJAVA_MECA_8859626##Opponents Green Commandos had multiple players suspended. Critics questioned why a facility deemed unsafe for hosting was not sanctioned earlier, despite clear breaches of matchday protocol — including fans allegedly seen wielding jembes (hoes) during games.Meanwhile, media teams have also become collateral damage. Several journalists and club communication officers from visiting teams report being harassed or physically assaulted while covering away fixtures.All set for SOYA’s 21st anniversary on ThursdaySome have been threatened and warned against publishing certain footage or commentary.“When media personnel cannot safely do their job, it’s more than just a football issue — it’s a systemic failure,” said a local football advocate. “FKF must send independent observers, unannounced, to witness what’s happening. Enough is enough.”The tension is further amplified by what’s at stake: next season’s NSL is expected to attract major sponsorship, bringing much-needed financial support to the clubs.##NAJAVA_MECA_8859628##But this injection of resources has also raised the pressure, with teams now willing to go to great lengths to secure promotion — by any means necessary.Despite the drama, one fact remains unchanged: Division One Zone B is arguably the most competitive and talent-rich grassroots league in the country. But for it to maintain credibility and inspire future generations, the integrity of the game must be protected at all costs.
