- The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has suspended all league matches in the country after the death of Raila Odinga
- The body led by Hussein Mohamed has announced to join the nation in mourning the former Prime Minister who died
- Raila was a fan of Gor Mahia and was a regular fixture at the stadiums, including during the August CHAN tournament in Nairobi
The Kenyan football federation has today suspended all its leagues following the death of the former prime minister Raila Odinga.
Source: Twitter
The country woke up to the shocking news that Raila died in India where he was receiving treatment.
In his address to the nation, the President William Ruto announced a seven-day period of national mourning for the man who fought for many of the rights that Kenyans enjoy today.
Ruto also revealed that Raila will be given a national funeral, while the Deputy President Kithur Kindiki and Raila’s brother Oburu Odinga leading the committee.
FKF suspends the league
FKF has now decided to suspend all its leagues for the time being, effective immediately.
“Following the Government’s announcement of seven days of National Mourning in honor of former Prime Minister Retired Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has suspended all league schedules scheduled during this period.”
“We join the nation in mourning a great leader and passionate supporter of Kenyan football. May his soul rest in peace,” read a statement sent to newsrooms.
Source: Twitter
The governing body for football in the country was previously mourning Raila, calling him a local football supporter.
“FKF joins the nation in mourning the passing of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. A politician, a visionary leader and a passionate supporter of local football, his legacy will continue to inspire. Our sincere condolences go to his family, friends and Kenyans in this difficult time.”
The suspension of league matches comes just after the Sportpesa League returned after the October international break.
Posta Rangers defeated Shabana FC 2-1 at the Gusii stadium to move to the top of the table after four games.
Kakamega Homeboyz beat Bidco United 3-1, while Sofapaka got their first win of the season, beating Murang’a Seal 2-1. At the time of writing, AFC Leopards and Bandari were still tied at the Kasarani stadium.
The remaining matches scheduled for the weekend, which include defending champions Kenya Police against Sofapaka and Gor Mahia, Raila’s club against Posta Rangers, have now been postponed to another date.
Posta Rangers lead with 10 points, followed by Shabana and Kakamega Homeboyz with seven. Gor Mahia and Nairobi United are in fourth place with six points, having played three games.
Ivory Coast beat Harambee Stars
On Tuesday evening, Ivory Coast put it to bed Harambee Stars 3-0 and qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Goals from Franck Kessie, Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo put Kenya in the lead as they finished fourth in their group.
Ivory Coast will return to the biggest stage for the first time since 2014.
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