MP Introduces Bill to Criminalize Match-Fixing in Sports

A legislative proposal aimed at criminalizing match-fixing and protecting sports competition integrity has been presented in Kenya’s National Assembly. The Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introduced by Irene Nyakerario Mayaka, seeks to establish a clear legal framework for addressing competition manipulation and reinforcing institutions tasked with ensuring fair play. Upon enactment, the Bill would, for the first time, explicitly define and criminalize match manipulation practices, a problem that has progressively undermined the credibility of sporting events in Kenya and worldwide. Under the proposed legislation, competition manipulation encompasses offering or accepting bribes to affect match outcomes, intentionally underperforming to change results, conspiring with others to fix competitions, or utilizing insider information for betting purposes. Mayaka stated the Bill aims to address legal loopholes that have historically complicated prosecution of individuals involved in match-fixing. “The new legislation will guarantee that competition manipulation is clearly defined and punishable,” she remarked. “Fair play should not just be a sports principle but a legal requirement as well.” The bill also seeks to enhance Sports Kenya’s mandate by authorizing the agency to receive reports of suspected match manipulation and investigate them in cooperation with other law enforcement and regulatory agencies. To avoid delays in processing such cases, the Bill mandates that investigations into suspected manipulation be concluded within six months. The proposal extends the jurisdiction of the Sports Disputes Tribunal. Athletes, clubs, and other stakeholders dissatisfied with Sports Kenya’s decisions regarding match manipulation will have the right to appeal to the tribunal. Bill supporters claim the initiative will establish a structured dispute resolution framework within the sports sector while improving transparency and accountability. Among the most significant provisions are the penalties outlined for offenders. Individuals found guilty of manipulating sports competitions might face fines of up to Sh1 million, imprisonment of up to one year, or both. Professional players and clubs involved in match-fixing could additionally face disciplinary actions such as match forfeitures, competition suspensions, or even lifetime bans from regulated sports events. Furthermore, the Bill suggests that any financial gains obtained through sports competition manipulation be seized by the state, effectively preventing offenders from benefiting from illegal activities. Kenya’s sports sector, especially football and athletics, has attracted increasing scrutiny recently due to allegations of match-fixing associated with international betting syndicates. If implemented, the legislation is anticipated to bolster transparency, accountability, and fairness in sports by ensuring competition results are determined by skill and effort rather than manipulation.