)
A legal letter served to Kisii Governor as tensions rise amidst sponsorship celebration.
Shabana FC finds itself embroiled in a bitter patronage dispute that threatens to overshadow their triumphant return to the top flight after 17 years in the wilderness.
A Ksh20 million one-year sponsorship deal with a betting firm, which was unveiled with much fanfare, has taken an unexpected turn, with former Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Sam Nyamweya issuing a stern warning to Kisii Governor Simba Arati, accusing him of meddling in the club's affairs.
The controversy stems from Nyamweya's belief that he has been unjustly ousted as the patron of Shabana FC.
The club raised eyebrows when it declared Governor Arati as the new patron in June, a move that Nyamweya vehemently contests.
)
07:00 - 14.08.2023
FOOTBALL ‘Show us what you have done’ - Shabana boss fires back at Nyamweya
Tore Bobe officials have dismissed the former FKF boss as a ‘busy body’ meant to destabilise the club after failing to support them while they were struggling.
In a statement through his legal representatives, Lusweti & Nabutola Company Advocates, Nyamweya expressed his discontent, alleging improper consultation and an unlawful takeover.
The legal warning delivered by Nyamweya's lawyers painted a picture of political interference that has cast a shadow over the club's independence.
)
08:47 - 13.08.2023
FKFPL Nyamweya expresses concerns over Shabana's sponsorship unveiling process
The patron of Shabana FC has publicly distanced himself from the recent unveiling of the club's new sponsor.
“Our client has informed us that you have been constantly, maliciously, and illegally interfering with the running and management of Shabana FC to the detriment of the club," the letter to Governor Arati reads.
The letter further alleges that Governor Arati's patronage was imposed without adhering to legal processes and was carried out surreptitiously at a hotel in Nairobi.
)
08:30 - 14.08.2023
FOOTBALL Gor Mahia legend voices his opinion over decision to rename ‘K’Ogalo home’ after AFC Leopards legend
The former Gor Mahia striker has weighed in on the issue which has divided opinion among a section of the club’s supporters.
As tensions escalate, the letter emphasizes that Shabana FC should remain politically neutral.
"Shabana FC is an independent entity, free from political affiliations or connections," the letter clarifies.
)
11:00 - 10.08.2023
FOOTBALL: 'Worried' Shabana coach reveals what is delaying his pre-season plans
Sammy Okoth is hoping that Tore Bobe can quickly sort out what is holding them back so that they can intensify their preparations for the new season
"While our client acknowledges and respects your position as the Governor of Kisii County, it is imperative to clarify that your political authority does not give you carte blanche to interfere with or dictate the affairs of Shabana FC."
Governor Arati, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, is urged to respect the autonomy of the football club and refrain from turning it into a political tool.
)
06:00 - 14.08.2023
FKFPL Exclusive: Gor Mahia head coach McKinstry issues transfer update on Gad Mathews
Mathews has been away on leave of absence to sort out some personal issues.
"Our client is aggrieved by your attempt to convert Shabana FC into an ODM wing. Such an attempt is a gross overreach and will be resisted," the letter asserts.
The legal document issued a stern warning, asserting that Nyamweya's team will pursue all available legal remedies if Governor Arati continues to interfere with the club.
06:00 - 14.08.2023
FKFPL Exclusive: Gor Mahia head coach McKinstry issues transfer update on Gad Mathews
Mathews has been away on leave of absence to sort out some personal issues.
"We expect your written confirmation of compliance with these demands within 3 days from the date of this letter," it reads.
"Please be warned that any further attempts to meddle in the operations of Shabana FC shall be met with the full force of the law."
)
18:11 - 14.08.2023
FOOTBALL Retired football star Bonface Ambani calls for inclusive stadiums in Kenya
Ambani has raised his voice against the glaring lack of accessibility for spectators with disabilities in Kenyan stadiums.
Amid this turmoil, Shabana is attempting to focus on its triumphant return to the top flight of Kenyan football.
The team's success in winning the National Super League (NSL) at the end of last season secured their promotion after nearly two decades in the lower divisions.
)
15:45 - 14.08.2023
FOOTBALL Official: AFC Leopards' transfer ban lifted
The club chairman confirms that an amicable resolution has been reached with former coach Aussems.
The Glamour Boys are set to unveil their new players having so far signed defenders Hillary Ndombi, Price Ayieko, Michael Wandera, and Rodgers Aloro, goalkeeper Michael Wanyika, midfielder Mark Okola, and striker Johanna Mwita.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)