Goons’ Party: A Reign of Terror Stains Harambee Stars Game at Nyayo

Well over 30,000 football fans thronged the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi in support of the national team against Gabon in the World Cup qualifiers. As expected, from the monstrosity of that magnitude, the match was marred by chaotic events throughout the 90 minutes and afterwards. An MP was roughed up, leaders heckled, and passersby robbed in the aftermath.

So much was at play in Sunday’s Harambee Stars game versus Gabon, which ended in a disappointing 2-1 loss, dimming the hopes of a place in the 2026 World Cup. The match was hailed by many as a milestone in Kenyans’ support for the team. However, the overwhelming support, as some would’ve expected, turned chaotic in bits and pieces.  

Prior to the match, Kenyans had begun allaying fears of insecurity that would disrupt the noble and precious moment for many, and they were right. In the run-up to kick-off, Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya was disdainfully roughed up and evicted by goons out of the stadium. Although it was not and still has not been clear who commissioned the hooliganism, some have pointed at the legislator’s recent dig at ODM leader Raila Odinga, who was also present at the VIP gallery, making it inhabitable for Salasya to show his face at the venue.

In a rejoinder on X, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi condemned the act, disputing acts of violence meted out to politicians and calling for dialogue and more peaceful political engagements. 

“What happened to Hon. Peter Salasya at Nyayo Stadium today is unfortunate. Political intolerance undermines the very foundation of our democracy, which relies on the ability to engage with differing views,” he said.

“We won’t always agree, and that’s okay. But respect, dialogue, and unity must remain non-negotiable. Respect must be given, but it must also be earned,” he continued.

Besides the hooliganism involving political elements, Kenyans in the vicinity also reported serial acts of robbery, especially after the match. With thousands marching into the capital on their way home, gangsters found the opportune moment to wreak havoc on innocent fans and passersby. One victim, identified as Wangari Thiong’o, shared on Instagram that she was robbed of her bag, which contained a stash of cash, an expensive mobile phone, and crucial documents. She has called upon anyone with information leading to her bag to reach out in help.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incidents.