Court Asked to Stop State Financial Pledges for Bayern-Ajax Match at Raila Odinga Stadium

The friendly match is scheduled for January 5, 2027, at the newly constructed Raila Odinga International Stadium, formerly known as Talanta Stadium, in Nairobi.

The petitioners want the High Court to issue orders preventing the government from approving, releasing or spending public money on the event until the case is heard and determined.

They are also demanding full disclosure of the financial arrangements surrounding the match, including sponsorship agreements and contracts signed with the two European clubs.

According to court documents, the petitioners are concerned about reports that approximately Sh724.6 million, equivalent to five million euros, could be required as an appearance fee for Bayern Munich.

However, they say the reported amount has not been independently verified and want the government to provide official figures.

The six petitioners are Erick Sayialel Mankuyu, Julius Kimani Kamau, Dickson Kimathi Muli, Nicholas Ochieng Oyoo, Mulinge Muteti and Collins Otieno.

They have named the Attorney General, Sports Cabinet Secretary, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary and Sports Kenya as respondents in the case.

The petitioners also want the government to reveal the companies sponsoring the event, their financial contributions and any obligations that may fall on taxpayers.

They are seeking a detailed breakdown of expenses covering travel, accommodation, security, insurance, hospitality and other arrangements.

The case comes after President William Ruto announced on October 28 that Bayern Munich and Ajax would play at the new stadium as part of its official opening.

The government has described the event as a commercially supported undertaking expected to operate through corporate partnerships.

Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has also maintained that private sponsors would finance the match.

However, the petitioners argue that such assurances should be supported by clear financial documents.

They say Kenyans have a constitutional right to know how public resources are being used.

The case has raised questions about transparency and accountability in the organisation of major sporting events.

The January 5 match is expected to attract international attention as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Uganda and Tanzania.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/19AF7EKxG7/

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