Leopards want neutral venue for postponed Sony clash

Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side AFC Leopards Secretary General Oscar Igaida has written to the competition organizer seeking change of venue for their rescheduled match against Sony Sugar.

In a letter addressed to KPL Limited CEO Jack Oguda and dated April 29, 2019, Igaida has enumerated three key reasons for the plea, in regards to the clash set for May 12.

In the letter that is also copied to Football Kenya Federation (FKF) CEO Robert Muthomi, Leopards have expressed doubt of safety if the venue remains Awendo, the home to Sony.

“In regards to replay of our second leg match against Sony Sugar, we would be grateful if you switched it to a different venue. We are seriously concerned about the security and safety of our players, officials and spectators if the match is to be played in Awendo.

“Our request is premised on hostile atmosphere experienced in the venue, which pointedly indicates our delegation could be exposed to danger in the replay,” read part of the letter.

Leopards also wants Sony to foot the cost of the match, on grounds that they have traveled to Awendo twice to honor the same fixture, failure coming from the hosts.

Apart from the venue appeal, Ingwe have underscored the need for a fully equipped ambulance with proper paramedics to be on standby, provided by Sony as required by KPL regulations on the host.

In the previously reschedule match, Leopards complained Sony failed to avail a well equipped ambulance, the match having been postponed because a day earlier due to heavy downpour.

However, security issues emerged as the host team fans barred Leopards players abs staff from leaving the venue (Awendo) without kicking the ball, despite their laments about the match preparation.

Leopards also complained officials were not at the venue within the required time to the kickoff, a complaint that was not well received by the home team.

This comes as Leopards chase for a top-10 finish continues to gather momentum, a day after sinking early season title favorites Bandari FC 2-1.

Elections Management Group

Meanwhile, preparations for the club’s elections set for June 2019 have officially started, with the constitution of Elections Management Group (EMG).

The elections, which will be overseen by Registrar of Sports Rose Wasike, will see a six-member EMG layout the preliminary process, headed by CEO Victor Bwibo acting as the Ex-Officio.

Others are Geoffrey Serede, Lawrence Weche, Bevon Aberi, Chris Amino and Swaleh Juma. Oscar Igaida will be seeking fresh mandate in the same SG capacity, while it remains unclear if Chairman Dan Mule will fight for a second term in office.