Ambani urges AFC Leopards’supporters to stop hostility against players
By Joel Masibo, March 24, 2026AFC Leopards chairman Boniface Ambani has appealed to club supporters to uphold respect, unity, and unwavering loyalty, especially in moments of defeat.
In a statement directed to the club’s passionate fanbase on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Ambani acknowledged the vital role supporters, often referred to as the ’12th man’, play in motivating the team. However, he expressed deep concern over recent incidents in which some fans directed abuse toward players following a loss.
Hostility towards players
According to Ambani, a section of supporters crossed the line from criticism into outright hostility. He cited troubling cases where individuals verbally attacked players, including personal insults directed at Bakari Randi and James Ssetuba, while others reportedly used discriminatory language against non-Luhya members of the squad.
One particularly disturbing incident involved a fan approaching the dressing room window to hurl offensive remarks at players based on their ethnicity.
”The attitude shown by some of you wasn’t pleasing at all in a match we recently lost. I will tell you openly. A certain percentage of these boys. One went on assaulting Randi, and others shoved obscene words towards Ssetuba. Three things happen in football. Draw, win or lose. The only time a real fan is tested is when his team loses. You need to show them love and care,” Ambani said.
The Ex-Kenyan international emphasised that such behaviour undermines the very spirit of football and the identity of AFC Leopards as an inclusive institution. He reminded fans that the club represents more than just a community; it is a national and international outfit that embraces diversity, bringing together players from different backgrounds in pursuit of a common goal.
”AFC LEOPARDS is a national and international outfit. It accommodates players from all walks of life. No discrimination. That was uncalled for. Kindly let’s restrain ourselves from such abusive language.” He added.
Fans’ role
He challenged fans to reflect on their role during difficult moments, urging them to replace anger with encouragement and hostility with compassion.
The former striker’s message ultimately calls for a cultural shift within the stands: one where criticism remains constructive, and where players, regardless of performance, feel supported rather than vilified.
This call comes shortly after irate AFC Leopards confronted the team’s technical bench and players after they registered their season’s worst defeat so far, a 4-1 beating at the hands of Mathare United earlier in the month in a Football Kenya Federation Premier League clash, a defeat that dented Ingwe’s title hopes.