Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has sounded the alarm over fans misconduct during the ongoing CHAN 2025 tournament, warning that Kenya’s hopes of hosting the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027 could be in jeopardy. Speaking ahead of the Harambee Stars’ second fixture against Angola at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Omollo urged football enthusiasts to maintain discipline and civility during the matches.
“CHAN is our audition for hosting the AFCON 2027 tournament. Every match is an opportunity to prove we can host Africa’s biggest football event,” Omollo stated. He emphasized that while Kenya has made major strides in infrastructure and sporting capacity, the final verdict will also heavily depend on how fans and organizers manage safety, security, and crowd behavior.
Omollo noted that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has laid down strict guidelines regarding stadium security, crowd control, and overall fan experience. “CAF and other stakeholders are closely observing not just the games, but the overall fan experience and security management. Therefore, our success in hosting the ongoing tournament must go beyond the readiness of our facilities and our on-field performance,” he said.
Highlighting the seriousness of the matter, Omollo warned that violations—whether inside or outside the stadium—could lead to severe consequences including disqualification from hosting AFCON 2027. He condemned acts such as jumping barriers, vandalism, and disorderly conduct, stating that they not only damage Kenya’s image but could also cost the country a golden opportunity to shine on the continental stage.
The Principal Secretary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring top-tier security, particularly in Nairobi, which is hosting several CHAN 2025 fixtures. He noted that security agencies have been deployed in large numbers to monitor fan activity, guarantee safety, and uphold public order during the games.
Omollo concluded by calling on fans to express their patriotism with responsibility. “We must show we are not just passionate; we must also demonstrate that we honour the game and opportunity. Let’s match patriotism with responsibility,” he said, underlining that success in CHAN 2025 could unlock new doors for Kenya’s global sporting ambitions.
