Is this the end of the road for Ushuru FC?
Shabana FC’s Coulibaly Mohamed (left) vies with Ushuru’s John Ndirangu during their National Super League match at Gusii Stadium on March 1, 2020.
What you need to know:
- Ushuru were relegated from the top-tier four seasons ago.
- The playing unit hasn't been paid their salaries and allowances since July.
National Super League (NSL) side Ushuru FC faces an uncertain future amid reports that it is folding up. With the transfer window closed last week, the team had only managed to register 14 players for the upcoming season, a clear indication of untold problems.
The team released several players and remained with only 14 who, Nation Sport understands haven’t received any salaries and allowances since July this year.
According to an official in the team, who sought anonymity for fear of victimisation, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) have not approved the team’s budget for the upcoming season.
“The budget for the upcoming season was sent in good time but no approval has been done yet. On further follow-up, we were told there’s no money for the team. The players have been training and playing friendly matches yet they haven’t been paid for four months now,” the source told Nation Sport.
“We could not register any players with the uncertainty surrounding the team and actually several players have joined other teams. The transfer window is already closed and is it appears this is the end of the road for Ushuru FC. Without any support from KRA then the team is as good as done,” added the source.
A player, who also sought anonymity, said it has been extremely difficult for the playing unit for the past few months.
“With no salaries for nearly four months and no clear communication whatsoever from the top management of the club, we feel rejected and let down. Most players have their houses locked due non-payment of rent and our families are really suffering,” he said.
KRA however blames the Covid-19 situation for the uncertainty surrounding the team’s fate.
“Kenya Revenue Authority has been the official sponsor of the Ushuru FC since the club was constituted in 2005. Since then, the team has been receiving unwavering support and dedication from KRA management and staff. However, the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted normal operations around the world, and football as a sport has not been spared,” KRA Deputy Commissioner in charge of Marketing and Communication Paul Agonda told Nation Sport.
“Like any other team in the Kenyan Premier League and National Super League, Ushuru FC was negatively affected by the pandemic. KRA is informed of the challenges and an amicable solution is being sought.” He added.
Ushuru were relegated from the top-tier four seasons ago.
If disbanded, Ushuru will join a long list of corporate clubs that have folded in the country over the last two seasons.
Nakumatt FC, Chemelil Sugar, Sony Sugar are some of the bi names that have gone under in the last two years.
