SDT orders mediation in AFC Leopards' dispute with former staff

The Sports Dispute Tribunal (SDT) has appointed a sole arbitrator to mediate between AFC Leopards and former officials claiming millions of shillings from the club for unfair dismissal.

The mediation efforts should be resolved by April 9 and a report presented to the tribunal by then.

According to SDT chairman John Ohaga, the mediation efforts will be led by Njeri Onyango as the sole arbiter in the matter.

Ohaga’s ruling followed an agreement between lawyers representing AFC Leopards, former head coach Tom Juma, former goalkeeper trainer Lawrence Webo and former physiotherapist Lawrence Odire.

Japheth Munyendo, the lawyer representing the three officials who have sued AFC Leopards said they opted for mediation inorder to reduce costs of the suit.

Ex-AFC Leopards Coach Tom Juma demands 9 million compensation

“In the interest of my clients we want to reduce the costs of the suit and have therefore opted for arbitration,” he said.

Ohaga said: “Considering that the parties have opted for arbitration, I hereby appoint a sole arbiter to handle the matter and report to this court by April 9 for the way forward.”

The matter had come up for hearing after earlier efforts for an out of court settlement did not materialize as both parties failed to agree and it had to be returned back to court for further directions.

Tom Juma who was sacked as head coach is demanding close to Ksh10 million from AFC Leopards. Webo wants to be paid Ksh 5 million while Odire is demanding Ksh 2 million.

The three were sacked last October over poor performance by the club but have disputed the manner in which they were let go.