This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
On September 30, 2019, the football community was abuzz with the news of Philemon Otieno's injury while representing the national team. As a player for Gor Mahia, Otieno's treatment and subsequent medical bills became a point of contention between the club and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
FKF was expected to settle the Sh300,000 bill for Otieno's knee operation, but the club's CEO, Ludovick Aduda, insisted that the federation was responsible for the player's treatment under Article 9 of the club's constitution. However, FKF's CEO, Barry Otieno, shifted the blame back to Gor Mahia, claiming that the club had not replied to his letter regarding the matter.
Meanwhile, another player, Shafiq Batambuze, was also injured while playing for Gor Mahia. In a radio interview, Aduda explained that the club was facing financial challenges and could not afford to treat Batambuze's injury, which required Sh400,000 for treatment. Batambuze was left to beg for help on television, highlighting the club's neglect of its players' welfare.
Aduda's justification for the club's financial challenges was met with criticism, with many questioning the club's priorities and financial management. The incident raises concerns about the treatment of players and the responsibility of clubs and federations towards their welfare.
