A sweeping overhaul is underway at Gor Mahia Football Club following a disappointing season that saw the FKF Premier League giants finish without a trophy for the first time since 2013. Club chairman Ambrose Rachier confirmed that several underperforming players and those whose contracts have expired will be released as part of a wider purge aimed at restoring the club’s dominance.
“We have players whose contracts have expired. Those we feel deserve renewals will be considered,” Rachier said. “Those who haven’t met the performance threshold will also be released after evaluation by professional coaches.”
The shakeup follows a string of dismissals at the club, beginning with Chief Executive Officer Ray Oruo and the entire technical bench, including interim head coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno and security personnel. Rachier described the exits as “mutual separations.”
In the past, Gor Mahia has faced sanctions from FIFA over contract disputes, but the club now says it is proceeding cautiously to avoid legal complications. “Everything will be done on mutual grounds to avoid FIFA-related disputes,” Rachier emphasized, adding that players seeking transfers will be handled through amicable negotiations.
The club is also addressing issues related to matchday operations following controversy over gate collections during the recent Mashemeji Derby in Homa Bay. Despite a full-capacity stadium, Gor Mahia only reported KSh 2.15 million in revenue, prompting scrutiny over suspected ticketing fraud.
Secretary General Sally Bolo condemned fans who evaded ticket purchases and blamed lax gate management. “We are now drawing a clear distinction between Gor Mahia stewards and security,” she said. “Some individuals at the gate enjoy benefits, and that’s why it’s been difficult to replace them.”
To address the issue, Gor Mahia will now require any contracted ticketing company to deploy its own security personnel at entry points. Club-affiliated individuals will no longer be allowed to manage fan admissions.
Going forward, Rachier said, the club’s stewards will undergo professional training to enhance the matchday experience and restore order both on and off the pitch.
The bold changes reflect a club determined to bounce back from a rare slump and reclaim its place at the top of Kenyan football.
Written By Rodney Mbua
