Kenyans React After Six Petitioners Move to Court to Block Bayern Vs Ajax Match At Talanta Stadium

Kenyans have reacted after reports emerge that six petitioners have moved to court to challenge the planned Bayern Munich and Ajax friendly match at Talanta Stadium. It has bee reported that the cost of hosting the two clubs is behind the litigation.

The match is scheduled for January 5, 2027, when the two clubs are expected to help open the new Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi. The 60,000-seat facility is part of Kenya’s preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Reports circulating online claim that six petitioners have moved to court seeking to block the fixture over concerns about the reported Sh724.6 million payment to Bayern Munich and a lack of transparency surrounding government funding.

A report published on October 31 said no case number or court order stopping the match had been verified. The reported legal challenge should therefore not be treated as a confirmed court action without further evidence.

The financial questions have attracted attention following reports that Bayern Munich could receive €5 million, equivalent to approximately Sh724.6 million, to participate in the match. The reported amount relates to Bayern alone, while the fee for Ajax has not been confirmed. The overall cost could also include travel, accommodation, security and other expenses.

President William Ruto has defended the event, saying it will be funded through corporate partnerships and a self-sustaining commercial model rather than placing a direct burden on taxpayers. However, critics want more details about the agreements, the source of the money and the expected benefits for Kenyans.

Online petitions have also called on Bayern Munich and Ajax to reconsider their participation and urged the government to publish the stadium’s financial records and the full match budget. The campaign has raised questions about accountability and the need to support local football.

Some critics have argued that Kenyan clubs such as Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, or the national team Harambee Stars, should have been considered for the stadium’s opening match. Others have welcomed the opportunity to watch two major European clubs play in Nairobi.

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19hPeS9YiF/

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