Breakthrough as FKF, KPL settle on 18-team league

The Joint Executive Committee formed by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and Kenyan Premier League Limited to discuss the expansion of the top flight from 16 to 18 teams have opted on the latter in a move that could significantly end the enduring feud.

According to federation President Nick Mwendwa, the agreement was reached on the basis the costs of accommodating the extra two teams would be catered for by FKF should the league’s sponsors fail to inject extra funds.

“What remains is the question of funds to facilitate the extra two. KPL mentioned their figure but but we are not in total agreement with. We’ve given them ours too and that is what we will specifically address in the small committee tomorrow, they will come with their finance team, as we shall do,” Mwendwa told Citizen Digital.

Mwendwa added both parties will be expected to present their finance teams on Saturday with himself, Jack Oguda (KPL CEO), Robert Muthomi (FKF CEO), Bob Munro (KPL founder and Mathare United chairman), Chris Amimo (Executive Committee Member) all forming part of the small committee.

Earlier this month, Mwendwa made good their threat and relegated three top flight clubs- Muhoroni Youth, Thika United and Sofapaka – from the Kenyan Premier League for failing to meet licensing requirements in conformity with CAF and FIFA regulations.

In effect, FKF promoted two extra teams from the second-tier, with Zoo Kericho FC and Nakumatt FC joining National Super League (NSL) champions Nzoia United and runners-up Kariobangi Sharks in top flight starting next season.

“We shall have 15 teams this season as earlier announced unless the appeals committee or higher authority like FIFA rules otherwise. We are waiting for the 14 days given for the teams to appeal to elapse before we can confirm the participating teams.

“So far, only Thika has appealed against relegation. We have agreed as FKF we shall add the amount needed for expansion, in case the sponsors do not cater for the same.

“The criteria will be promoting three and relegating two every season until 2020. By then, KPL’s contract of running the league will be over, then we shall discuss the way forward,” Mwendwa outlined.

Mwendwa took positives in the development, saying he looks forward to the smooth running of the league when it resumes on February 11.