Sonko Seeks Kenya–Madagascar Replay
he has demanded the disciplining of the referee and other officials who handled the game for breaching CAF’s Code of Conduct and tarnishing the image
His grievance has been filed by lawyer Arnold Oginga, who has referenced that the CAF rules hold the referees, assistant referees, inspectors, commissioners, and all staff appointed as a body accountable. Photo/ Harambe stars X
By Juliet Jerotich
Ex-Governor of Nairobi Mike Mbuvi Sonko has gone ahead to challenge the outcome of the CHAN 2024 quarter-final game between Harambee Stars of Kenya and Madagascar. He has penned a letter to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) requesting the replay of the game due to biasness and unlawful refereeing.
Sonko makes this claim in his Article 43 complaint against match officials. He claims that the officials denied Kenya a level playing field. According to him, the officials incorrectly disallowed two Harambee Stars goals. He accuses the officials of making the decisions without reference to the application of VAR or advice to captains of the teams, coaches, and other stakeholders involved, as provided for under fair play rules.
Sonko argues that the officials’ acts violated football values of integrity, loyalty, and ethics. He claims that the behavior prejudiced Kenya and denied the team a chance to play the semi-finals. His grievance has been filed by lawyer Arnold Oginga, who has referenced that the CAF rules hold the referees, assistant referees, inspectors, commissioners, and all staff appointed as a body accountable.
The former governor attributes the match officials with conspiracy to deprive Kenya of an opportunity in the tournament. He has petitioned CAF to declare the cancellation of the two goals invalid, overturn the penalty shootout, and award the game to Harambee Stars. If that does not go through, Sonko wants CAF to order the replay of the game.
Secondly, he has demanded the disciplining of the referee and other officials who handled the game for breaching CAF’s Code of Conduct and tarnishing the image of the competition.
Kenya’s CHAN journey had turned the country’s eyes towards them after Harambee Stars bulldozed their way to the knockout stages. Their fantasies were, however, cut short in Kasarani after they lost 4-3 on penalties to Madagascar. Widespread controversy in refereeing during the match has since had fans and authorities venting their anger.
Sonko insists that CAF must move with speed to safeguard fairness in the sport. He believes that the petition is not just about Kenya but also about safeguarding the integrity of football in Africa.
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