Pressure mounts on AFC Leopards as coaches body condemns Ambani's divisive remarks
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 26.05.26. | 18:13
Ambani had expressed frustration over officiating after Ingwe’s 2-1 loss away to APS Bomet on Sunday, a result that effectively handed rivals Gor Mahia the league title
FKF Premier League giants AFC Leopards have come under fresh pressure after the Kenya National Coaches Association (KENFOCA) condemned remarks made by head coach Fred Ambani following the club’s recent league defeat to APS Bomet.
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Ambani had expressed frustration with officiating after Ingwe’s 2-1 loss away to APS Bomet on Sunday, a result that effectively handed rivals Gor Mahia the league title.
The former league-winning midfielder accused referee Oyoo Diego of poor officiating and questioned the decision to hand him such a crucial fixture.
“If we cannot change the officiating, we have a problem in Kenya. You cannot give a title-deciding game to a referee like this. The federation has to look into this,” said Ambani.
However, some of the coach’s remarks have since sparked backlash, with sections of the football community terming them tribal and discriminatory.
In a press statement dated Tuesday, 26 May, and signed by Secretary General John Njogu Kamande, KENFOCA termed the comments unacceptable and against the values football stands for.
“KENFOCA and the wider football community were disappointed to learn of the tribal remarks made by Head Coach Fred Ambani in a recent media address. Such comments are unacceptable,” read part of the statement.
The association further stated that coaches hold influential positions in society and should use their platforms to unite rather than divide.
“They contradict the spirit of the game, the principles of KENFOCA, and the values of unity that football is meant to uphold.
A coach holds a position of influence over young players and supporters, and with that influence comes the responsibility to unite, not divide,” the statement continued.
KENFOCA also quoted former South African president Nelson Mandela while stressing the role sport plays in promoting unity.
“As Nelson Mandela said, ‘Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand.’
Tribal statements betray that power and send the wrong message to the next generation of players and fans.”
Ambani’s words, particularly the phrase “What is his origin?” directed at the referee, appear to have intensified the criticism around the incident.
KENFOCA has now called on AFC Leopards management to act swiftly and transparently while reaffirming the club’s commitment to inclusivity and non-discrimination.
“We call on AFC Leopards management to address this matter swiftly and transparently and to reaffirm the club’s commitment to non-discrimination and inclusivity.
Football in Kenya belongs to all Kenyans, regardless of tribe, background, or region. We remain committed to a game where talent, discipline, and character are the only criteria for selection and respect.”