Darajani Gogo have rejected a KSh 7 million offer from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), choosing to challenge their relegation from the National Super League (NSL) through legal channels rather than accept a drop to the third tier.
The dispute follows FKF’s efforts to persuade the club to accept demotion to the FKF Division One League as part of a plan to create room for four additional teams to join the NSL.
Despite the financial proposal, Darajani Gogo maintained its position and opted to contest the relegation decision in court. The club’s move has introduced uncertainty into preparations for the new season, with the disagreement now subject to judicial proceedings.
In a significant development, the court issued an order reinstating Darajani Gogo to the NSL pending the determination of the case. The court also halted the commencement of the new season until the dispute is heard and resolved.
The ruling provides temporary relief for Darajani Gogo, although the final outcome will depend on the court’s determination of the matter. The order does not necessarily represent a final judgment on the legality of the federation’s relegation decision.
FKF’s proposal was aimed at facilitating the promotion of four teams into the second-tier competition. However, Darajani Gogo’s refusal to accept the offer means the federation’s plans must now contend with the ongoing legal challenge.
The disagreement raises questions about the process used to determine league participation and the procedures governing promotion and relegation in Kenyan football. Nevertheless, the specific grounds for the club’s demotion and the arguments presented by both parties will need to be assessed through the court proceedings.
The case is scheduled for mention on November 17 at the Machakos High Court, where further directions on the matter may be issued.
Until then, Darajani Gogo’s position in the NSL remains subject to the ongoing legal process, while the suspension of the new season adds pressure on the relevant football authorities to resolve the dispute.
The upcoming court proceedings are expected to provide further clarity on the disagreement between the club and FKF, with the final decision likely to have implications for the organisation of the NSL and the proposed promotion of four teams.
