A request has been made by AFC Leopards fans to their supporters to abstain from attending the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby on May 14, 2023, at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani.
The derby is widely regarded as the most significant Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League match of the season, featuring Gor Mahia, the traditional rivals of AFC Leopards.
Prior to the game, some factions of the Leopards’ supporter base have vowed to boycott the event to convey their displeasure to the Kenyan governing body.
In a press statement going round on various Whatsapp platforms, Leopards fans cited their disappointment with the FKF and their failure to professionalize and market the league.
”They have failed in professionalizing and marketing our league hence clubs are going through some serious financial problems to honour their league matches. But instead of the Federation trying to cushion clubs they are keen on settling non existance scores with punitive penalties against clubs like us.” Part of the statement read.
They believe that the federation has not done enough to encourage fans back to the stands, which has led to financial problems for the clubs.
Their request to boycott attending the Mashemeji derby comes as their arch rivals rallied their fans to attend the match at releasing the The ticketing information.
VIP tickets for the derby have been set at Sh500, while regular tickets will cost Sh200. The club is expected to provide more information on the venues where the tickets will be sold.
“We have invited top political leaders and urge fans from both teams to turn up in large numbers. All fans must pay at the gate including the club’s former officials because apart from good football, we also have to cater to the welfare of players,” said Ochola
“Fans will also have entertainment as we are in the process of sourcing for a popular musician who will have a grand performance at Kasarani. This Mashemeji Derby will be in a class on its own because all arrangements are in top gear,” added the official.
