SDT suspends NSL kickoff, voids promotions of Soy United and Compel FC

In orders issued on September 3, 2025, and signed by Tribunal chair Bernard Wafula Murunga, the SDT granted an injunction restraining the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) from promoting teams from Division One or commencing the NSL until its earlier judgment on Gucha Stars is fully complied with.

The case, filed under reference SDTSC/E039/2025, will next be heard on September 15, 2025.

The dispute dates back to May 23, when the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee nullified Gucha Stars’ promotion after finding the club guilty of fielding an ineligible player, Eugene Nyakaga, under a false identity in a decisive match against Nakuru Bucks.

The committee ruled that the impersonation violated FKF rules and undermined the integrity of the competition.

However, Gucha Stars successfully challenged the decision in court. On June 24, the Tribunal ruled in their favor, ordering a replay of the controversial match.

Gucha then obtained a further court order compelling FKF to comply, arguing that the replay’s outcome could significantly alter the Division One standings.

A win for Gucha would see them finish top of their group and secure historic promotion to the second tier.

Despite this, FKF moved ahead with preparations for the 2025/26 NSL season and announced the promotion of Soy United and Compel FC, sparking accusations of defying the Tribunal’s judgment.

In its latest ruling, the SDT went further by granting leave to commence criminal contempt proceedings against FKF CEO Harold Ndege, Chairman Peter Kamau Chege, and Leagues and Competitions Manager Frankline Opimbi Ogolla for alleged disobedience of court orders.

The decision throws the new NSL season into uncertainty, with FKF now required to resolve the Gucha Stars matter before the second-tier league can kick off.

The Tribunal’s firm stance underscores its growing role in enforcing accountability and transparency in Kenyan football governance.