- APS Bomet have been promoted to the top flight following a favorable ruling by the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee.
- The decision results from a controversial NSL match against Kibera Black Stars on June 13.
- The promotion marks a historic breakthrough for APS Bomet after years of setbacks.
APS Bomet has earned promotion to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League 2026, ascending from the National Super League (NSL).
This achievement comes after the team was awarded threee points by the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee based from a match that was abandoned against Kibera Black Stars on Sunday, June 1, at the Jamhuri Sports Complex.
The controversial encounter was halted in the 79th minute after chaos ensued.
Philip Wasai who was coming off the bench, netted an equalizer for APS Bomet, with the referee determining that the ball had crossed the line a decision that was disputed by Kibera supporters.
Tensions escalated as home fans stormed the pitch and assaulted assistant referee Eunice Njeri. The match officials were left unprotected due to the absence of adequate security, prompting the abandonment of the game.
ALSO READ: Historic triumph! Nairobi United beat 3K FC to earn FKF Premier League promotion
Following an inquiry, the Committee found Kibera Black Stars culpable for the disruption, citing failure to ensure proper security arrangements.
In accordance with Article 3.3.3 of the FKF Rules and Regulations, the match was awarded to APS Bomet with a 2-0 scoreline and three points.
From the above findings, the Committee’s Decision in regards to the matter is as follows; 1. THAT Kibera Black Stars FC caused the abandonment of the match. 2. Consequently, and in line with Art. 3-3.2 as read with Art. 3-3-3 of the FKF Rules and Regulations, Kibera Black Stars FC shall forfeit the match and the same shall be awarded to APS Bomet FC on a 2-0 score, 3 points basis.”
This outcome solidifies Evans Mafuta’s charges in second place on the NSL table with 63 points from 33 matches, now six points clear of third-placed Fortune FC (57 points) who can no longer overtake them.
Having now secured promotion mathematically, the South Rift-based side joins Nairobi United, who had earlier confirmed their ascent to the top division.
It marks a historic milestone for APS Bomet who finally earn a spot in the FKF Premier League after enduring years of setbacks and misfortune.
ALSO READ: Muyoti admits players hungry for silverware, targets Gor in FKF Cup final
Why was APS Bomet denied promotion in 2023?
In the 2021/2022 season, APS Bomet were poised for promotion after clinching the NSL title. Alongside runners-up Fortune Sacco, they were slated for direct promotion to the top flight. However, their celebration was short-lived.
Before they could even feature in a top-tier fixture, the FKF National Executive Committee (NEC) nullified the entire season.
Then-FKF CEO Barry Otieno announced that the 2021/2022 campaigns across multiple divisions- including the FKF Premier League, National Super League, Women’s Premier League, and both men’s and women’s First Division Leagues, were voided and would not be recognized.
This decision followed widespread suspensions, including APS Bomet and Fortune Sacco from the NSL, and Dimba Patriots, Kona Rangers, and Mayenje Santos from the FKF Men Division One League, due to their failure to honor scheduled fixtures.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over 419 Million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
