Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is investigating an incident that saw a photojournalist attacked during the Gor Mahia vs Mara Sugar match at Dandora Stadium in Nairobi on Sunday, April 27, 2025.

FKF, in a press statement issued on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, condemned the incident and maintained that such actions are unacceptable and have no place in Kenyan football.

The incident that has since caused an uproar saw Daily Nation photojournalist Chris Omalla assaulted by a police officer.

FKF on journalists’ safety

The Hussein Mohammed-led federation further vowed to ensure the safety of journalists and football fans in stadiums during the matches.

“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is deeply saddened and profoundly regrets the assault on Daily Nation photojournalist Mr Chris Omalla during the Gor Mahia versus Mara Sugar FKF Premier League match on Sunday, 27th March, at Dandora Stadium, Nairobi. We strongly condemn the violence directed at Mr Omollo, as well as any aggression towards fans and other journalists. Such actions are unacceptable and have no place in Kenyan football,” the statement read in part.

“The media and fans are integral to the football ecosystem, and their safety is a top priority. FKF is fully committed to ensuring that all individuals can attend and cover football matches in a secure environment, free from fear or harm.”

FKF went ahead to state that it had already instituted an action following the Sunday incident and that they are working closely with the National Police Service (NPS), Gor Mahia, Mara Sugar, and Dandora Stadium management to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the assault and ensure accountability for those responsible.

Security protocols

Additionally, FKF says it is reviewing and enhancing security protocols for journalists and spectators at Dandora Stadium and all football venues across Kenya to prevent future occurrences.

“In response to this unacceptable incident, FKF is taking swift and decisive action. We are working closely with the National Police Service (NPS), Gor Mahia, Mara Sugar, and Dandora Stadium management to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of this assault and ensure accountability for those responsible. Additionally, we are reviewing and enhancing security protocols for journalists and spectators at Dandora Stadium and all football venues across Kenya to prevent future occurrences,” FKF stated.

Adding: “FKF is dedicated to collaborating with the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) and other stakeholders to implement robust measures that prioritise journalist safety and uphold press freedom. We welcome open dialogue to ensure these measures effectively address the needs of all journalists. We wish Mr Omollo a full and speedy recovery and reaffirm our commitment to addressing this matter with the urgency and seriousness it demands.”

FKF condemns the assault on journalist Chris Omollo and commits to swift action to ensure safety for all at football matches. pic.twitter.com/M9SiPOtYx6

— Football Kenya Federation (@Football_Kenya) April 29, 2025