Kenya has moved a step closer to criminalising match-fixing after Members of Parliament passed the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, at its second reading, paving the way for sterner action against manipulation of sporting competitions.Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe bill, sponsored by nominated MP Irene Mayaka, seeks to amend the Sports Act by introducing a comprehensive legal framework to define, investigate, and punish match-fixing and other forms of sports manipulation that threaten the integrity of competitions.If enacted, the law will empower relevant authorities to investigate match-fixing while imposing stiff penalties on offenders.##NAJAVA_MECA_9867848##Anyone found guilty will face a fine of up to Ksh1 million, imprisonment for up to one year, or both, in addition to a lifetime ban from sports.Moving the motion in the National Assembly, Mayaka argued that the current Sports Act lacks explicit provisions to criminalise sports manipulation, leaving the country exposed to organised betting and match-fixing syndicates."This is also to protect the integrity of athletics, clubs, fans, and sponsors. If you look at the current Sports Act (Cap 223), it does not contain any explicit provisions to criminalise sports manipulation," she said.STARS ABROAD: Kenyan-eligible defender impresses in narrow pre-season defeat to LiverpoolMayaka noted that sports federations have largely been left to deal with match fixing internally despite lacking the legal powers to dismantle criminal networks behind the vice."Internal sporting bodies are often unequipped to handle organised criminal syndicates. This is where the criminal aspect comes into play so that specific criminal investigation bodies in the country can be charged with ensuring proper investigations," she added.Under Clause Three of the proposed law, Sports Kenya will be mandated to receive reports of suspected match-fixing, initiate inquiries, and work jointly with national investigative agencies to conclude investigations within six months.##NAJAVA_MECA_9870689##Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna, who seconded the motion, said Kenya's existing Penal Code only addresses general fraud and fails to specifically criminalise match manipulation."The Penal Code (Cap. 63) covers general fraud like cheating but has no dedicated match-fixing provision. Hon. Irene Mayaka did extensive research in countries like Italy and Brazil," said Nguna."In Brazil, any involvement with match manipulation amounts to two to six years in prison, but here in Kenya we don't have such safeguards. Odemba reveals two key areas Harambee Starlets have worked on ahead of Senegal testWe are proposing these legislative amendments to align with international standards and bring integrity back to our sports fraternity."Kitui Central MP Dr Makali Mulu also threw his weight behind the bill, describing match-fixing as a growing threat that undermines fair competition and robs athletes of the rewards of their hard work."This animal called 'sports manipulation' or 'fixing of matches' is a common problem and should concern every Kenyan. ##NAJAVA_MECA_9869810##It takes a lot of time to train to become an excellent sportsperson, and when we allow match-fixing, that effort is not rewarded accordingly," Mulu said."Imagine you have gone to a stadium, paid for your ticket hoping to get the best out of the match, and at the end of the day an inferior team wins because of fixing."While supporting the proposed sanctions, Mulu urged Parliament to consider increasing the maximum fine during the Bill's next stage to make the punishment even more punitive.Charles Akonnor launches tirade on individuals plotting his Gor Mahia exitHaving cleared the Second Reading, the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, now proceeds to the Committee of the Whole House, where lawmakers will scrutinise it clause by clause before it is subjected to a final vote.