The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has intensified its drive for consistency and excellence in officiating by demoting FIFA-accredited referee Erick Njogu to the FKF National Super League for 5 matches following a review of his performance in recent SportPesa League fixtures.
The FKF National Referees Committee conducted a virtual review on December 10 analyzing match footage and reports from three matches Kariobangi Sharks vs Shabana FC, Nairobi United vs Mathare United and Kenya Police vs Mathare United.
The Committee found that several key decisions he made were inconsistent with the standards expected of a referee at the SportPesa League level. As a corrective measure, Njogu has been demoted to officiate in the second tier for the next five rounds.
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FKF demotes FIFA Referee Eric Njogu
“Following the review, the Committee assessed the performance of Mr. Erick Njogu (FIFA Referee) in Match No. 56 (Kariobangi Sharks vs Shabana FC) and Match No. 94 (Nairobi United vs Mathare United).
Several key decisions were found to be inconsistent with the standards expected at his level. As a corrective and developmental measure, Mr. Njogu will be demoted to officiate National Super League (NSL) matches for the next five (5) rounds.
His performance will be closely monitored, with evaluation reports submitted to determine readiness for reinstatement to the Premier League panel,” the FKF statement read in part.
The review also targeted officials from Match No 90 – Kenya Police vs Mathare United.
“Assistant Referee Mr. Fredrick Kajongo has been issued with a formal warning after the Committee noted an incorrect offside decision during the game,” FKF noted.
Like Njogu, Kajongo’s future assignments will be closely monitored, with FKF expecting a significant improvement in his decision-making accuracy.
FKF also announced disciplinary measures against three match officials following a review of officiating during the SportPesa League Match No 68 between Kakamega Homeboyz FC and Murang’a Seal FC.
Second Assistant Referee Jackson Opiayo has been removed from SportPesa League appointments for three rounds and reassigned to the FKF National Super League.
The committee’s ruling stated that Mr Opiayo made an offside decision from an incorrect positioning, which ultimately denied the attacking team a legitimate opportunity.
“His performance during the NSL assignments will be closely monitored, and a detailed report will be required before consideration for reinstatement to SportPesa League duties,” the FKF statement read.
Two other officials were issued official warnings following a separate contentious decision regarding a corner-kick.
Referee David Serem received a formal warning for an incorrect corner-kick decision that the committee determined was taken without clear justification and without supportive input from the assistant referee. His explanation during the review was found unsatisfactory, as available footage did not support his call.
Similarly, First Assistant Referee Ms Gladys Kamuren was also issued an official warning concerning the same corner-kick incident.
Though she was reportedly best positioned to judge whether the ball had left the field of play, the committee deemed her communication and signalling insufficient, contributing to the final incorrect ruling.
FKF says it will maintain dedication to upholding high standards for all its competitions.
“FKF remains committed to enhancing the quality, consistency, and integrity of officiating within the SportPesa League and all FKF-managed competitions.
The federation plans to continue supporting match officials through targeted training, evaluations, and corrective measures aimed at continual improvement.”