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Former AFC Leopards defender Collins Shivachi has confirmed he has reported the Football Kenya Federation Premier League side to the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT).

The experienced defender did not reveal why he has taken the move to sue the club, but this comes after his contract with Ingwe expired and was not renewed.

Recently, AFC Leopards have found themselves at loggerheads with either their former players or coach. When coach Patrick Aussems confirmed he would not return to the Den for the 2023/24 season, he reported the club to FIFA over outstanding salary arrears.

The two parties reached an amicable solution for resolving the dispute. Had Aussems declined to agree on a payment deal, AFC Leopards risked being denied a license to participate in the ongoing season.

SDT move

Although Shivachi confirmed his SDT move, he said he would remain Ingwe‘s fan.

“It’s time to announce and clear the air: I ran out of contract and am no longer a member of this great club. Despite going to the tribunal, I’ll remain a great supporter and a big contributor to the club.

“Thank you, and I am happy to be part of the club. Thanks for the memories. All the best. See you soon! AFC Leopards SC,” Shivachi said in a statement.

Shivachi at AFC

The Premier League winner joined AFC Leopards from Tusker in 2020 and spent three seasons at the Den. He was part of the Ingwe squad that reached the FKF Cup final in 2021 but were defeated on penalties by their arch-rivals Gor Mahia.

The 27-year-old established himself as a reputable defender at Tusker, as he played crucial roles when they won a double in 2016. He was signed for Tusker by Ugandan head coach Paul Nkata.

His exit from the Den adds to the list of players who have left in the ongoing transfer window. The others are Tedian Esilaba, Robert Mudenyu, Peter Thiongo, Olo Olaniyi, and Eugene Mukangula.