Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier has issued a strong appeal for fairness in football officiating while urging fans to maintain peace ahead of the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards.
Speaking during a press briefing, Rachier raised concerns over what he termed as “questionable decisions” by match officials, warning that such actions risk bringing the game into disrepute. However, he was careful to distinguish between public commentary and formal complaints, noting that the club has already addressed its concerns directly with the federation.
“We are not asking you to bend the rules, we’re asking you to observe the rules,” Rachier said. “And don’t think that we are not watching. We are watching.”
His remarks underline growing scrutiny around officiating standards in Kenyan football, even as tensions remain relatively contained compared to past seasons.
Call for Justice and Transparency
At the core of Rachier’s statement was a broader call for justice and transparency in decision-making across the sport. He emphasized that fairness must not only be practiced but must also be visible to all stakeholders.
“Justice need not only be done but must be seen to be done,” he stated. “This is a principle of equity and of justice whether you are a match official or making any decision in football.”
Rachier stated that his statements were not a public protest, but rather a broad call to protect the game’s integrity. He maintained that Gor Mahia does not consider itself a unique club and is only fighting for broadly applicable standards.
Maintaining Peace Among Fans
A substantial part of his speech centered on fan behavior, with Rachier commending fans for being calm despite their concerns with refereeing.
“It used to be a common occurrence,” he said, referring to past incidents of violence. “Now I want to congratulate and thank [fans]…people have refrained from taking any action that would lead to violence.”
He urged supporters to continue exercising discipline, even in the face of controversial decisions. “If you’re provoked by a certain decision, please…let us leave it to be judged,” he added.
Derby Appeal
Looking ahead to the upcoming Mashemeji Derby, Rachier made a direct appeal to both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards fans to maintain peace and uphold the positive trend witnessed in recent fixtures.
“Let us shame the devil. Let us be peaceful, respecting all the results as we have been doing,” he said.
He also called for affordable ticket pricing to ensure wider fan participation, particularly given the current economic climate. According to Rachier, accessible pricing would not only boost attendance but also reinforce the role of fans as the “12th man.”
“The 12th man is visible and cheers,” he noted, encouraging supporters to turn out in large numbers and back their teams constructively.
Rachier concluded by praising club officials, stewards, and management for maintaining order during high-risk matches, noting that expectations of violence have not materialized in recent derbies.
“I think our fans have refrained from violence, we do not have an image that these people are violent,” he said.
His remarks reflect a broader effort within Kenyan football to improve its image, enhance governance, and foster a more professional and fan-friendly environment.
