Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has broken its silence on a video that went viral on Thursday, March 27, which seemed to implicate a Harambee Stars goalkeeper in a match-fixing scandal.
In their statement, the Federation confirmed investigations have been launched to establish the authenticity of the video, in which the goalkeeper appears to be receiving instructions on how to fix a match.
While confirming their awareness of the video circulating online, the federation said, "FKF upholds the integrity of football and has launched an official investigation in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities. We reaffirm our zero-tolerance policy on match manipulation and are committed to safeguarding the credibility of our competitions."
The Federation added, "This investigation will adhere to FKF’s Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations and FIFA guidelines, ensuring a fair, transparent, and thorough process. The rights of the player and his club will be respected, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings."
In the viral footage, the goalie appears to be engaged in a conversation with unidentified individuals as he discusses particulars of a "deal" to manipulate a football match's outcome.
The shot-stopper appears oblivious that he is being recorded during the conversation, which takes place inside a car.
“I repeat again before the boss, this is the first deal, I beg you. You know how we have done this, I have never let you down, you have never let me down,” an unidentified man says as the individual nods in agreement.
The FKF did not confirm the authenticity of the video in circulation, but urged anyone with further information to share it with the federation to assist in investigations.
"We encourage anyone with credible information to assist in this investigation. All reports will be handled with strict confidentiality," FKF asserted.
If found guilty of match-fixing, the goalkeeper could face serious repercussions on his football career, with the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) having zero tolerance for the vice.
Players previously found guilty of fixing matches have been subjected to hefty sanctions, including lifetime bans and long-term suspensions. In other countries, match-fixing has been criminalized, with perpetrators risking jail time if found guilty.
Kenyan football could also suffer severe consequences if the match-fixing claims prove to be true. For one, the credibility of the sport in the country will take a hit, while investors and sponsors could potentially withdraw their support due to a negative international image.
