Justina Wamae slams Kasarani breach during Harambee Stars match
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 10, 2025Former Roots Party presidential running mate Justina Wamae has hit out at Kenya’s sports management and security systems after yet another incident marred the build-up to Harambee Stars’ CHAN 2024 clash against Morocco at Kasarani Stadium.
Wamae drew a striking comparison to events on January 12, 1997, when Kenyan fans forced their way into Kasarani ahead of a FIFA 1998 World Cup qualifying match against Nigeria – a game that ended 1-1 under coach Reinhard Fabisch.
“Kenyans forced their way into Kasarani Stadium way back when Harambee Stars played Nigeria in 1997. Twenty-seven years later, Kenyans still use the same route, meaning Kenya stagnates on security development and sports management. Where do you expect our sportsmen and women to benefit?” she posed.
Her comments came after chaotic scenes on Sunday afternoon, with fans breaching security less than an hour before kickoff.
CAF fines spotlight chaos
The incident echoes a pattern that has already cost the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) financially during CHAN 2024. Last week, CAF’s Disciplinary Board fined FKF Ksh646, 000 for a stampede and unauthorised access during the Kenya vs DR Congo match, an additional Ksh1,292,000 for the assault of CAF personnel and guests, and issued a warning over the ignition of fire inside the stadium.
In a separate ruling, CAF also fined FKF Ksh646, 000 — with Ksh323,000 suspended — for security lapses during the Morocco vs Angola fixture. These penalties have put the spotlight on Kenya’s ability to safely host large-scale football events.
Wamae’s criticism goes beyond the fines, pointing to a deeper issue of infrastructure and crowd management that has seemingly remained unchanged for decades. The breach before the Morocco game, despite the lessons and sanctions from earlier CHAN matches, raises questions over FKF’s preparedness and the adequacy of stadium security protocols.
With CHAN 2024 bringing continental attention to Kenya’s hosting capabilities, the recurring chaos risks overshadowing the Harambee Stars’ on-field performances.