Group moves to court over planned Bayern Munich, Ajax match at Raila Odinga Talanta Stadium

Six human rights activists have filed a constitutional petition at Nairobi's Milimani Law Courts, demanding the High Court intervene to prevent the Kenyan government from using public funds for an international friendly football match between Bayern Munich and Ajax. The planned January 5, 2027 match is set to inaugurate the new Raila Odinga International Stadium, previously known as Talanta Stadium.

The activists question the reported 724 million shilling appearance fee for Bayern Munich, along with additional costs for travel, accommodation, security and logistics. They argue these figures lack independent verification and seek clarification on the event's funding, the role of taxpayers, and whether the match will deliver value for money and tangible benefits to Kenyans.

The petition names the Attorney General, Cabinet Secretaries for Sports and National Treasury, and Sports Kenya as respondents, with the Katiba Institute and the Law Society of Kenya as interested parties. Activists argue that while President Ruto claims the event will be self-sustaining, this doesn't rule out possible government financial commitments.

They request the court to restrain respondents from using public funds, providing guarantees, or committing resources to the match until the case is resolved. The activists are also seeking orders to compel the government to disclose sponsorship agreements, identify corporate sponsors, and provide a detailed budget breakdown within seven days, along with an independent audit of any public funds used for the event.

The case raises concerns about the stadium's financing, citing a 97.5 billion shilling contingent liability from the Sports Arts and Social Development Fund. The activists insist on transparency and accountability in using public resources, particularly for major sporting events with substantial financial commitments. They argue that citizens have the constitutional right to know how public resources are utilized and that the proposed financial arrangements must demonstrate value for money, lawful expenditure, transparency and measurable benefits to Kenyan citizens.