Sofapaka turn to court in last ditch bid to stop KPL start

The circus surrounding the 2017 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) continued on the eve of its designated start when 2009 champions, Sofapaka FC moved to court seeking an injunction against its kick-off.

KPL Chief Executive Officer, Jack Oguda acknowledged receiving the court order but told Citizen Digital it was too late to prevent the first round that has eight matches from kicking off as planned on Saturday.

“As far as I’m aware, the order does not expressly say we stop the league but I will consult on the matter. For now, everything goes ahead as planned and if there is anything, I will let you know,” Oguda said.

Sofapaka obtained the orders from the High Court pending a hearing to their application next Wednesday where they are claiming starting the 2017 KPL without them is prejudicial to their case at the Sports Dispute Tribunal (SDT).

The orders were obtained from the High Court and granted by Lady Justice Olga Sewe who said, “That the status quo now obtaining as at 3:30pm today (Friday) be maintained pending further orders by Mr. Justice Tuiyott on March 15, 2017.

“Granted that the Judge will be off day causelist on March 13, 2017.”

Sofapaka are challenging their demotion from the KPL by Football Kenya Federation who found them guilty of flouting CAF Licensing rules regulations.

The SDT will rule on their case on Wednesday with the federation saying the 2009 title winners have failed to guarantee payment to their players and are owing former employees monies when the team fell into financial trouble.

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