Mombasa United Fights for KPL Promotion, Warns Against Blocking Decision
Mombasa United President Abdilrahman Hussein has firmly declared that the club will not accept any decision that prevents them from being promoted to the Kenya Premier League (KPL) after finishing third in the National Super League (NSL) last season.
Speaking to Citizen Digital, Hussein maintained that the league regulations were clearly communicated before the season began, with clubs explicitly informed that three teams would earn promotion to the top flight. The club is now standing by the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) ruling that favored their promotion bid, even as legal battles threaten to delay the start of the new season.
Regulations Were Clear from the Start
Hussein dismissed claims that the promotion criteria were communicated mid-season, insisting that the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) had made its position clear long before the first match was played.
“People are only focusing on the issue of promotion and relegation but the 2025 regulations has more things than those 2. As Mombasa United we received a clear [communication] from then the CEO that NEC had deliberated and decided the criteria for promotion and relegation that this time 3 teams will be promoted to KPL and 3 teams relegated to NSL,” Hussein stated.
He added, “The communication came way before we started the season. In fact, it came on 23rd of September and our first match was on 27th Sep — so those saying the communication came mid-season, they are lying to themselves.”
Club Already Preparing for KPL Life
According to Hussein, Mombasa United has already begun preparing for life in the top tier, following the SDT ruling that validated their promotion. The club has invested in player recruitment, pre-season training, and logistical arrangements in anticipation of competing in the KPL.
“SDT gave out its ruling and that’s what we are holding on as a team. We have done our business, our preparation and we are ready to kick off the new season. So anything apart from that we see it as derailing football and we are not being honest with ourselves,” he said.
The Mombasa United boss called on football stakeholders to intervene and find a quick resolution to the ongoing dispute, warning that continued delays could have serious consequences for Kenyan football.
“We must protect our league. Players deserve what is best for them,” Hussein urged.
Legal Battles Threaten New Season
Several cases have since been filed in court seeking to block the start of the new season amid the dispute over the number of teams to be promoted to the KPL and those to be relegated to the NSL. The uncertainty has left clubs, players, and fans in limbo as the new campaign hangs in the balance.
Mombasa FKF Chairman Alamin Ahmed Abdalla has also weighed in, warning that the prolonged delay is damaging Kenyan football. He echoed Hussein’s sentiments, insisting that Mombasa United must be part of the KPL next season.
“Our demand is only Mombasa United to be part of KPL next season. If all goes wrong, our stand will remain that all leagues in 2025 are null and void. We urge the court to take the right decision and leave Mombasa United to participate in Kenya Premier League,” Alamin stated.
He added, “Teams are prepared — let the league start with the 2025 regulations.”
What’s at Stake
The dispute centers on whether three or two teams should be promoted from the NSL to the KPL. Mombasa United finished third in the NSL standings, meaning their promotion hinges entirely on the three-team promotion rule. If the number is reduced to two, the club would miss out on promotion despite their on-field performance.
For Mombasa United, promotion to the KPL represents not just a competitive milestone but also a financial lifeline. Top-flight football offers greater sponsorship opportunities, higher media visibility, and increased revenue streams that are critical for the club’s sustainability.
Stakeholders Call for Urgent Resolution
With the new season already delayed, stakeholders across Kenyan football are growing increasingly anxious. Players are uncertain about their contracts, clubs are struggling with planning, and fans are losing patience. Hussein’s call for swift intervention reflects a broader frustration within the football community.
The SDT ruling has given Mombasa United legal backing, but court cases filed by opposing parties could overturn or delay implementation. The coming days will be crucial as the judiciary and football governing bodies work to resolve the impasse.
Conclusion
Mombasa United’s fight for KPL promotion is about more than just a spot in the standings—it’s about fairness, adherence to regulations, and the integrity of Kenyan football. With the SDT ruling in their favor and the 2025 regulations clearly stating three promotions, the club is standing firm. As legal battles continue, the football community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that honors the rules of the game and allows the season to finally begin.