The Football Kenya Federation, through its National Referees Committee, has concluded a performance review of selected match officials following recent SportPesa League fixtures. The review was conducted during a virtual meeting of the FKF Instructors Technical Group held on 3rd February 2026.
The meeting involved a detailed analysis of match footage, match officials’ reports, and explanations provided by the affected officials, in line with FKF’s commitment to maintaining high standards of officiating and upholding the integrity of the game.
Following the review, the Committee assessed the performances of Ms. Susan Nyambura (Referee) in Match No. 155 KCB FC vs Tusker FC, and Ms. Jane Cherono (Assistant Referee), and Mr. Emmanuel Ochieng (Referee) in Match No. 168 Shabana FC vs Bandari FC. The officials were found to have made decisions that were deemed to be match influencing and below the expected standards at the top-tier level.
As a corrective and developmental measure, the three officials have been demoted to officiate National Super League matches for the next five rounds. During this period, they will be closely monitored by match commissioners and instructors, with performance evaluation reports submitted to the Technical Committee to guide decisions on their future Premier League appointments.
The Committee also reviewed the performances of Mr. Kelvin Maina (FIFA Referee) in Match No. 167 Kakamega Homeboyz FC vs Mara Sugar FC, Mr. Evans Kirimi (Referee) in Match No. 162 (Ulinzi Stars FC vs Murang’a Seal FC), and Ms. Lucy Juma (Referee) in Match No. 157 APS Bomet FC vs Shabana FC. While their decisions did not directly affect the outcomes of their respective matches, instances of indecisiveness, lack of authority, and lapses in concentration were noted.
Consequently, the three officials have been issued with formal verbal warnings. Their future assignments will be closely monitored through match commissioners’ and assessors’ reports, with an expectation of improved decision making, game control, and application of the Laws of the Game.
In addition, the Committee reviewed the progress of Mr. Jackson Opiayo following his previous disciplinary action. After being closely monitored in National Super League matches, assessment reports indicated significant improvement in his positioning, decision making, and overall officiating standards. As a result, he has been reinstated to officiate SportPesa League matches with immediate effect, subject to continued performance monitoring.