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Coaches’ body condemns AFC Leopards gaffer Ambani over divisive remarks
26th May, 2026 07:09 PM
The Kenya National Coaches Association (KENFOCA) has condemned divisive remarks made by AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani during a recent media address, terming the comments unacceptable and against the spirit of football.
In a press statement dated May 26, 2026, KENFOCA expressed disappointment over the remarks by Ambani on Sunday, May 24, 2026, as AFC Leopards surrendered the league title to their eternal rivals Gor Mahia, following their 2-1 defeat to APS Bomet at the Kericho Green Stadium.
The association has said Ambani’s sentiments, where he was recorded decrying poor officiating in a particular crucial tie, go against the values of unity, inclusivity, and non-discrimination that the game is meant to promote.
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The association has also emphasised that coaches occupy influential positions in society, especially among young players and supporters, and therefore carry the responsibility of fostering togetherness rather than division.
Ambani condemned
“Such comments are unacceptable. They contradict the spirit of the game, the principles of KENFOCA, and the values of unity that football is meant to uphold,” the statement signed by KENFOCA Secretary General John Njogu Kamande read.
KENFOCA further has noted that football should remain a platform that unites Kenyans regardless of tribe, background, or region. The association stressed that talent, discipline, and character should be the only standards used in the sport.
Quoting former South African President Nelson Mandela, the association highlighted the unifying power of sport, stating that football has the ability to inspire and bring people together in ways few other platforms can.
The coaches’ body warned that tribal sentiments risk sending the wrong message to the younger generation of footballers and fans, while also undermining the role of sports in promoting national cohesion.
Ambani’s utterances
Speaking after the loss, Ambani reiterated the call for fairness in match officiating, asserting that integrity must be maintained on the pitch, especially when coaches work so hard to prepare their teams.
“I want to go on record saying that we are headed for doom if we cannot rectify and address the issues of officiating. We cannot have such league deciders being handed to such referees. First of all, where is his origin? It is nonsense; you cannot give him a game of this magnitude,” he lamented.
Central to his argument was a controversial decision that the gaffer said involved Hassan Beja. The winger was upended in clear sight of goal and denied a clear goal-scoring opportunity, according to the former international, while no action was taken against the opposing player.
KENFOCA has now called on AFC Leopards management to address the matter swiftly and transparently while reaffirming the club’s commitment to inclusivity and equal treatment within the team and the wider football community.
