CHAN 2024: Government Releases Statement After CAF Fine Over Security Lapses
- The Kenyan government has released a statement warning Kenyan football fans about their conduct
- This comes after CAF imposed a huge fine on FKF for security breaches before Kebya vs DR Congo
- The Ministry of Interior has urged Kenyans to avoid misbehaviour during CHAN 2024, warning that it could damage the country's reputation
The Kenyan government has responded to CAF after they were slapped with a fine for security breaches during their opening CHAN 2024 match against DR Congo on Sunday, August 3.
Source: Getty Images
CAF sanctioned FKF for breaching several articles of their Safety and Security Regulations during matches played over the weekend.
Why did CAF fine Kenya?
On Wednesday, August 6, CAF released a statement announcing that they had punished FKF for breaching rules related to the Kenya vs. DR Congo and Morocco vs. Angola matches.
In the Kenya vs. DR Congo match, CAF imposed a fine on FKF for violating Articles 82 and 83 of the CAF Disciplinary Code, along with Articles 15, 31, and 32 of the CAF Safety and Security Regulations.
As a result, they were fined $5,000 (KSh 646,000) for the stampede and unauthorised access at Kasarani, $10,000 (KSh 1.3 million) for the attack on CAF personnel and guests. They also received a warning for a fire inside the stadium.
For the Morocco vs Angola clash at Nyayo Stadium, Kenya were charged with misconduct and breaches of Articles 82 and 83, 31, 32, and 43.
They were hit with a $5,000 (KSh 646,000) fine, with $2,500 (KSh 323,000) suspended, provided FKF does not commit a similar offence for the rest of the tournament. Therefore, Kenya has 60 days to pay a fine of KSh 2.5 million.
How has the Kenyan government responded?
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration, led by Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, has urged Kenyans to "behave" to protect their reputation.
"CAF has set strict standards we must continuously meet regarding such tournaments. The Federation provides clear conditions on fan safety, security protocols, and crowd conduct," the statement read.
"Any breaches – even outside the stadium – can result in consequences, including formal warnings, penalties or disqualification from future bids. As such, our conduct as fans has serious national implications."
Kenya is also set to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, and CAF will be closely monitoring the events at CHAN.
"Against this backdrop, I must say that CHAN is our audition for hosting the AFCON 2027 tournament," the statement added.
"Our success depends on collective discipline. Security teams are working tirelessly. Let us support them by cooperating and observing the protocols and directives they give us. The whole world is watching; let’s represent ourselves well."
Source: Twitter
Kenyans filled Kasarani last Sunday to watch Harambee Stars defeat DR Congo 1-0, and will return again on Thursday evening to face Angola.
What next for Harambee Stars?
Kenya will play Angola and then battle favourites and two-time winners Morocco on Sunday, August 17.
Kenya will also host the final of the tournament on August 30 and potentially the final of the 2027 AFCON.
Harambee Stars will need to first reach the quarter-final and try and lift their first major trophy.
Will Benni McCarthy leave Kenya?
In another update, we shared Benni McCarthy's thoughts on when he might vacate the Haramebe Stars role.
The South African stated that he plans to return to club football in order to share his knowledge and experience.
He previously coached AmaZulu and Cape Town City before joining Manchester United as a first-team coach.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
