Football fans in Kenya were left in shock as news broke of an explosive legal battle between two rival football coaches.
Robert Matano, the coach for Tusker Football Club, has taken legal action against Patrick Aussems, the coach of AFC Leopards, for defamation.
The lawsuit stems from a tweet by Mr. Aussems on April 9, 2023, where he allegedly branded Mr. Matano “an old coach who used witchcraft more than tactics to win his football matches.”
According to court documents, Mr. Matano, through his lawyers at Wambilanga Majani & Associates, has accused Mr. Aussems of making false and malicious statements that have tarnished his reputation. The lawsuit claims that Mr. Aussems’ words insinuate that Mr. Matano practices witchcraft, and that he lacks the necessary coaching knowledge and experience.
“Further by calling our client a djudju man, you insinuated that our client is a witch, sorcerer, evil, black magician, warlock and /or practices black magic, especially for evil purposes. The said statement is false and malicious and only meant to stain his good reputation as he is a highly respected coach not just in Kenya but in East Africa. Our Client is a national hero with a rich profile both as a footballer and a coach filled with success,” said Mr Matano’s lawyers in their statement.
In response to the tweet, Mr. Matano has demanded an unconditional written apology from Mr. Aussems, as well as a public apology on his Twitter page within three days from the date of the letter.
The lawyers have also stated that if Mr. Aussems fails to comply, legal proceedings will be instituted for the recovery of compensation for the damages caused to Mr. Matano’s reputation.
