Fans have overrun a police barricade outside Kasarani Stadium in efforts to access the grounds ahead of the Kenya versus DR Congo CHAN 2024 tournament opener.
Police and Stewards were overpowered at several entry points, with thousands pushing past barriers and defying orders in frustration over the lack of tickets. Many fans say they traveled from far, only to be locked out of the game, ostensibly, because the management had run out of tickets.
Football fans were irked by the claim that the government reserved most of the seats for loyalists, crowding out ordinary Kenyans. The technique was applied to forestall anti-government chants during the match that will be broadcast globally.
“This is our national team, not a political rally,” shouted one irate fan, as he ducked under a barrier near Gate 5. Others say they registered for tickets online but were turned away without explanation.
With kickoff just a few minutes away security officers are now struggling to restore order as crowds keep surging forward.
Meanwhile, ex-Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has offered to purchase entry tickets for 5,000 fans.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars takes on the Congolese national side amid anti-patriotic sentiments among the largely football-loving populace.
President Dr William Samoei Ruto has arrived to watch the match alongside CAF President Patrice Motsepe.
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