The start of the 2026/27 FKF Premier League season faces further delay after the High Court clarified that the status quo order issued in the Kariobangi Sharks appeal means the situation that existed before the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) decision of August 10 must remain in place until further directions are issued on September 21.
Justice Janet Mulwa, sitting at the Milimani High Court, issued the clarification on Monday after Football Kenya Federation (FKF) moved the court under a certificate of urgency seeking interpretation of orders issued on August 25.
The dispute centres on an SDT decision that affected Kariobangi Sharks’ position in the top flight and has complicated preparations for the new league season.
In her ruling, Justice Mulwa said the August 25 order could not be interpreted separately from the tribunal’s decision of August 10.
“The status quo order, in clear simple and plain language, therefore means: THAT THE SITUATION OBTAINING ON THE GROUND, PRIOR TO THE DECISION OF THE TRIBUNAL RENDERED ON 10/8/2026, AND DISPOSAL OF THE MOTION SHALL REMAIN AS IT WAS THEN,” the judge said.
She directed that the position remain unchanged pending further directions on the disposal of the motion on September 21.
Justice Mulwa stressed that Monday’s clarification did not amount to a new injunction or court order.
“This clarification is not a fresh injunction, nor a fresh order, but is made to preserve, in the interim, the subject of the appeal,” she said.
The court’s interpretation could further complicate FKF’s plans to begin the 2026/27 Premier League season, which has already been affected by the dispute over promotion and relegation.
The league had not started when the SDT delivered its August 10 decision. The requirement to maintain the position that existed before that ruling therefore leaves the football federation facing uncertainty as it prepares for the new campaign.
Justice Mulwa directed all parties to comply with the clarified order.
“Once again let all parties comply with the now clear plain and simple order,” she said.
The court also issued a penal notice warning that any person who disobeys or fails to observe the order would face legal consequences.
The matter will return before the High Court on September 21 for further directions on the pending motion.
The latest ruling leaves FKF, Kariobangi Sharks and other parties to the dispute awaiting further court directions before the issues surrounding the new season can be resolved.