A fresh legal battle has cast uncertainty over the FKF National Super League (NSL) after a formal complaint was lodged at the Sports Disputes Tribunal challenging the eligibility of Equity Bank FC in the ongoing 2025/26 season.
The case, filed by Winfred Mutisya, raises serious questions about the integrity of the league and adherence to promotion and relegation rules set by the Football Kenya Federation. Named as respondents in the matter are FKF Head of Competitions Frank Ogolla, Leagues and Competitions Committee chairman Peter Kamau, popularly known as Kass Kass, Equity Bank FC, and the federation itself.
According to documents presented before the tribunal, the applicant argues that Equity Bank FC did not earn promotion to the NSL through sporting merit. It is claimed that the club finished 14th during the 2024/25 Division One campaign, a position that should have resulted in relegation to Division Two rather than elevation to the second tier.
The petition further states that despite this, Equity Bank FC is currently participating in the NSL and performing strongly, sitting third on the table as the season enters its decisive phase. This, the applicant contends, raises “serious and urgent questions” regarding compliance with FKF regulations governing league structures.
The tribunal has already moved swiftly, certifying the matter as urgent following the filing of a Certificate of Urgency. In directions issued under Deputy Chairperson Hon. Allan Mola Owinyi, all respondents have been ordered to file and serve their responses by May 8, 2026. The case is scheduled for mention on May 12, 2026, and will be conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams.
The urgency of the case stems from the ongoing nature of the league, with fixtures continuing to be played even as the dispute unfolds. The applicant warns that failure to intervene promptly could render the matter academic, potentially undermining the credibility of the competition and causing irreparable damage to stakeholders.
At the heart of the dispute is the principle of sporting integrity, particularly the enforcement of promotion and relegation rules. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications not only for Equity Bank FC but also for the broader NSL title race, where the club is currently among the leading contenders for promotion to the top flight.
