Africa-Press – Kenya. The storm surrounding officiating in the SportPesa Premier League continues to intensify, with Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier adding his voice to growing frustration within the club ahead of a tense run-in.
Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday, Rachier struck a measured but firm tone, warning that repeated controversial decisions risk eroding trust in the league.
“It has been so long since I spoke about the injustice in our league,” he said.
“I am not fighting the federation or speaking as Gor Mahia chairman. I am talking as a football stakeholder interested in saving our league.
”His remarks come amid rising concern from within the club’s technical bench.
Head coach Charles Akonnor has recently questioned officiating standards, particularly after a 1-0 loss to Tusker FC where a penalty appeal involving Patrick Essombe was waved away.
Further frustration followed in a goalless draw against Bandari FC, where a penalty decision was overturned, deepening concerns over consistency. Back at the briefing, Rachier echoed that sentiment.
“Are we truly satisfied with the level of officiating in our league?” he posed.
“That is a question we must all ask ourselves honestly. There have been questionable decisions at a very critical point of the season.
Justice must prevail not just for Gor Mahia, but for every team in the league. ” While avoiding direct accusations, he stressed the need for fairness.
“We are not asking for favours, only that the rules are applied fairly. Football must be governed by consistency, not confusion,” he said. He also called for greater clarity in decision-making.
“We want to understand how a decision can be reversed under such circumstances. Transparency is key if we are to maintain confidence in the system. ”
Despite the frustrations, Akonnor has maintained belief in Gor Mahia’s title push, even as scrutiny around officiating grows in decisive fixtures. Attention now shifts to the upcoming Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards, with Rachier urging calm and accessibility for fans.
“Let’s make our ticketing affordable to attract more fans,” he said.
“Just looking at the state of the economy, it’s not really favourable.
”“We don’t have the powers to choose how our opponents price their tickets, but we can just appeal for them to consider the pleas of the fans.
”He emphasised the importance of supporters to the game.
“Fans are the 12th man—they are visible, and they matter. If we price them out, we weaken the very foundation of our sport,” Rachier observed.
Rachier also commended supporters for maintaining discipline despite rising tensions. “I want to thank supporters. We have not witnessed violence despite protests.
Let us keep it that way,” he said. “Let us enjoy the match peacefully. These derbies have improved in conduct, and we must protect that progress. ” In closing, he widened the focus beyond club interests.
“This is not about Gor Mahia. We are not special. We are simply part of a system that must work fairly for everyone.”
