AFC Leopards Chairman Dan Shikanda Vows to Derail Gor Mahia’s Title Hopes in the Mashemeji Derby

AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda has boldly declared that Kenya Police FC will win the FKF Premier League (FKFPL) title ahead of biitter riavls Gor Mahia and his team will play a major role in making that happen when they face off in the Mashemeji Derby at the Raila Odinga Stadium on June 2.

Speaking in Homa Bay County on May 23 during the send-off ceremony of Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) chairman Paul Otula, Shikanda used the platform to express both condolences and fierce sporting ambition ahead of the much-anticipated Mashemeji Derby.

Gor Mahia, the defending champions, find themselves trailing in the title race, and a loss in the derby could shatter their hopes of reclaiming the trophy.

AFC Leopards, though not in the title fight themselves, are determined to play kingmakers and spoilers.

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Shikanda, while donning dual roles at the event, representing the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and as chairman of AFC Leopards, didn’t mince words about his club’s intentions.

"It's unfortunate. We will not have Paul (Otula) on the 2nd of June when AFC and Gor Mahia will be playing the first derby outside Nairobi. We will be at Raila Odinga Stadium and I can assure you we will beat Gor Mahia," he stated, sparking excitement and tension ahead of one of Kenya’s most intense football rivalries.

Should AFC Leopards win the derby, Gor Mahia’s title hopes would all but vanish, especially with a final-day showdown looming against Kenya Police FC, the current league leaders.

A slip-up in the derby would leave Gor needing a miracle on the final matchday.

While making his football predictions, Shikanda also took a swipe at the lack of proper funding for community clubs like AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia.

He warned that even if Kenya Police clinch the title, their continental matches might suffer from poor attendance due to their limited fan base.

“Today it may be unfortunate or fortunate that Kenya Police will win the Kenya Premier League. And I can assure you, come next season, when they will be playing their continental match, we might hardly have 100 people on that pitch as spectators,” Shikanda remarked.

He also called on political leaders and legislators to prioritize support for established clubs with deep community roots, warning that clubs like AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia cannot continue operating on a shoestring budget.

The Mashemeji Derby promises to be more than just a battle for bragging rights, it may be the turning point in the FKFPL title race.