PS Omollo warns lawlessness could disqualify Kenya from hosting AFCON in 2027
By Arnold Ngure, August 7, 2025Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has appealed to Kenyan football fans to exercise civility ahead of the second fixture of Harambee Stars against Angola at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani stadium.
In a statement on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Omollo said that poor conduct of the fans during the CHAN 2024 tournament could cost Kenya the privilege of hosting the 2027 AFCON games.
“I must say that CHAN is our audition for hosting the AFCON 2027 tournament. Every match is an opportunity to prove we can host Africa’s biggest football event,” Omollo said.
Strict CAF guidelines
“CAF and other stakeholders are closely observing not just the games, but the overall fan experience and security management. Therefore, our success in hosting the ongoing tournament must go beyond the readiness of our facilities and our on-field performance.”
Omollo urged the fans to adhere to the regulations laid down by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), noting that any breaches could result in penalties for the government.
“As we may all be aware, CAF has set strict standards we must continuously meet regarding such tournaments. The Federation provides clear conditions on fan safety, security protocols, and crowd conduct,” Omollo observed.
Disqualification from hosting
“Any breaches, even outside the stadium, can result in consequences, including formal warnings, penalties or disqualification from future bids. As such, our conduct as fans has serious national implications.”
He discouraged football fanatics from jumping barriers, shoving, or vandalising, noting that such acts reflect poorly on Kenya’s sporting culture as a country and the level of civility.
“Needless to say, such actions damage our reputation, international standing and our ability to host future tournaments,” he said.
Omollo urged fans to match their passion for the game with some level of responsibility to not only preserve the infrastructure at the stadiums but also demonstrate honour for the game.
“We must show we are not just passionate; we must also demonstrate that we honour the game and opportunity. Let’s match patriotism with responsibility,” he remarked.