FKF Wins Legal Battle, Can Proceed with Patrick Matasi Disciplinary Case

Patrick Matasi, former Harambee Stars goalkeeper, faces renewed scrutiny after the High Court in Kakamega dismissed his petition challenging disciplinary action by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). The ruling clears the way for FKF to move forward with its investigation into alleged match-fixing involving the player.

The saga began in March 2025, when FKF imposed a 90-day suspension on Matasi following the circulation of a viral video. The clip allegedly showed the Kakamega Homeboyz goalkeeper discussing plans to manipulate the outcome of a domestic league fixture. In response, Matasi sought court intervention in April 2025, obtaining temporary orders that prevented the federation from enforcing the ban.

However, the High Court has now ruled in FKF’s favor, finding no substantial grounds to uphold Matasi’s petition. The federation was represented in court by Ochutsi Munyendo and Company Advocates. FKF argued that it acted within its mandate under the Anti–Match Manipulation Regulations, a position the court accepted.

The case has attracted considerable attention, not only because of Matasi’s national team status but also due to the sensitive nature of match-fixing allegations in Kenyan football. FKF, in coordination with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), launched an investigation immediately after the video surfaced, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding the sport’s integrity.

Matasi has consistently denied the allegations, maintaining that the individual in the video is not him. Kakamega Homeboyz, his club, has backed the goalkeeper, calling for transparency and fairness in the federation’s disciplinary proceedings.

This controversy comes amid a challenging period for Matasi, who has also faced criticism for mistakes in Kenya’s 4-1 loss to Cameroon during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

While the April court ruling briefly lifted the ban, FKF had not reinstated him to the pitch pending the ongoing disciplinary process. With the High Court’s dismissal of his petition, FKF is now free to conclude its investigation and apply sanctions if warranted. Legal analysts suggest that this decision may serve as a precedent for handling similar disputes between players and football authorities, reinforcing the federation’s regulatory authority.