Musonye dismisses ticket hoarding claims in Kenya vs DRC clash
By Joel Masibo, August 4, 2025The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) Local Organising Committee Chairman Nicholas Musonye has addressed growing concerns and allegations of ticket hoarding during Harambee Stars’ Group A opener against DR Congo on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at the Kasarani Stadium.
Speaking during a local radio breakfast show on Monday, August 4, 2025, Musonye rubbished claims that the tickets were reserved for select individuals, emphasising that the distribution process was handled transparently and directly by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Ticket hoarding
“There was no ticket hoarding. Harambee Stars vs DRC tickets were open to the market. The thinking that we gave tickets to some individuals is not true. These tickets were sold by CAF on platforms they chose themselves,” Musonye clarified.
His remarks follow complaints from sections of fans and political leaders who complained that tickets were difficult to access, sparking fears that favouritism may have played a role in distribution ahead of the high-stakes fixture.
Musonye also took the opportunity to remind supporters of CAF’s strict stadium regulations, warning against carrying prohibited items into match venues. He emphasised the importance of supporting the national team within the guidelines set by the governing body.
“There are items that are prohibited from the stadium. We do not want to attract penalties from CAF. Isukuti, whistles, and vuvuzelas are not allowed. Let us support Harambee Stars with decorum,” he added.
Kenya made their African Nations Championship debut before the home fans with a commanding 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in Group A of the tournament. Gor Mahi’s midfielder Austine Odhiambo scored the all-important goal on the stroke of half-time.
In another group A action, two-time champions Morocco beat Angola 2-0 in their opening fixture of the competition at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, August 3, 2025. Harambee Stars’ next assignment will be against Angola on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, starting at 7 pm local time.
As the tournament gathers momentum, the Local Organising Committee has reiterated its commitment to ensuring smooth operations and a fan-friendly environment, calling on Kenyans to rally behind Harambee Stars in an orderly and respectful manner.