Kenyan football has marked the end of an era as four respected referees–Moses Simiyu, Timothy Onditi, John Alando, and Andrew Opulu–officiated their final competitive match during the Mozzart Bet Cup 3rd place playoff on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced their retirement, praising their dedication and lasting impact on the beautiful game. These referees have been pillars of fairness, ensuring the spirit of football thrived in Kenya through their countless matches and tough decisions.

Moses Simiyu, known for his calm authority, has officiated numerous high-stakes matches in the FKF Premier League and regional tournaments. His sharp decision-making earned him respect from players and fans alike. Timothy Onditi, with his keen eye for detail, was a familiar figure in Kenyan football, often handling intense games with composure.

John Alando, a seasoned official, brought consistency and professionalism to the pitch, contributing to the growth of fair play in the sport. Andrew Opulu, admired for his passion, leaves a legacy of integrity, having officiated with unwavering commitment to the game’s values.

A heartfelt farewell

The FKF, in a heartfelt statement, thanked the quartet for their tireless service, highlighting the countless matches they officiated and the spirit of fairness they embodied with every whistle. Their contributions extended beyond individual games, helping uphold the standards of refereeing in Kenya during challenging times, including periods of financial strain and allegations of mismanagement within the federation.

“Thank you for the countless matches, the tough calls, and the spirit of fairness you brought to every whistle blown. Wishing you all the best in your next chapters, you’ve earned it!,” Kenya Football posted on their X account on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

The Mozzart Bet Cup, a prestigious knockout tournament offering a CAF Confederation Cup ticket, was a fitting stage for their final bow. Their retirement comes at a time when Kenyan football is striving to improve officiating standards, with recent reports highlighting issues like referee bribery and match-fixing. These referees, however, stood as exemplars of professionalism, leaving a positive mark on the sport.

As they step into new chapters, the Kenyan football community wishes them well. Their legacy will inspire future referees to uphold fairness and passion.