Suspended goalkeeper calls for justice two years after match-fixing allegations

©David Kiptoo

Suspended goalkeeper calls for justice two years after match-fixing allegations

Festus Chuma 13:00 - 24.07.2024

Former Zoo FC goalkeeper is seeking a fair hearing to clear his name in Kenyan football.

On 13 January 2023, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) took decisive action against alleged match-fixing within its ranks, suspending 15 players with former Muhoroni Youth and Zoo FC goalkeeper Daniel Kiptoo among them.

Nearly two years since that fateful announcement Kiptoo remains in a challenging limbo tirelessly seeking an opportunity to clear his name.

The embattled goalkeeper, whose career came to an abrupt halt following the allegations has expressed his frustration over the lack of communication from the FKF.

In a desperate bid for justice, Kiptoo penned an open letter to the Kenya Footballers Welfare Association and FKF CEO Barry Otieno emphasizing his prolonged struggle to be heard.

"I am writing to follow up on the email I sent regarding the match-fixing allegations against me. Despite my detailed response, I have not received any acknowledgment or response from your side," the letter reads.

Kiptoo's ordeal reflects a deeper issue within Kenyan football where prolonged unresolved cases can significantly impact an athlete's personal and professional life.

"The lack of communication is concerning and affecting my professional and personal life significantly. I would like to remind you of the urgency of this matter and the importance of addressing it promptly and fairly," he added in his letter.

"If I do not receive a response soon, I will be compelled to consider legal action to protect my reputation and career. I hope we can resolve this matter amicably and swiftly," he noted.

At the time of the suspension, FKF advised its members to steer clear of any sporting contact with the individuals named.

However the specifics of the alleged match-fixing incidents including the games involved remain shrouded in mystery.

The issue of match-fixing is not new to Kenyan football in 2021, the FIFA Integrity Unit expelled Zoo FC from the top-flight league for related violations, and in 2020, it banned several players and officials for their involvement in international match-fixing conspiracies.

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