Football Kenya Federation has revealed that the Ulinzi Sports Complex management declined to host the Premier League showdown between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards for security reasons.

K’Ogalo had hoped to host their archrivals at the Moi International Sports Complex, Kasarani, but a directive from CAF stated that that should not happen.

With Nyayo Stadium not available, Ulinzi Sports Complex became a natural alternative, as it is the only other venue within the city capable of hosting the match. After it became apparent the venue would not be granted, the Mashemeji Derby was postponed.

“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) wishes to inform the public that the FKF Premier League match between Gor Mahia FC and AFC Leopards SC, originally scheduled for Sunday, 11 May 2025, has been postponed.

“This decision follows recent developments regarding the availability of suitable venues for the fixture. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has directed that the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani – the initially proposed venue – remains unavailable due to final preparations ahead of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), for which it is a designated competition venue.

“CAF had further proposed that the fixture be moved to the Ulinzi Sports Complex and played behind closed doors to preserve CHAN infrastructure and maintain security standards. However, the venue declined to host the match, citing internal concerns around safety and the risk of vandalism,” FKF said in a statement.

The date when the match will be played remains unknown.

“Following these developments, FKF held a meeting with representatives from both Gor Mahia FC and AFC Leopards SC on Friday, 9 May 2025. The two clubs have been formally informed of the situation and are aware of the reasons behind the decision to postpone the fixture.

“With no suitable venue currently available, FKF has resolved to postpone the match to a later date, which will be communicated in due course.

“This fixture remains one of the most anticipated on the Kenyan football calendar, and we regret the inconvenience this change may cause to supporters, clubs, and partners,” the statement added.

The first round Mashemeji Derby meeting between Ingwe and K’Ogalo also faced a similar challenge before it was finally played at Nyayo Stadium, with both sides sharing points in a goalless draw.