On April 1, Interior CS Fred Matiang’i introduced tough measures to regulate betting sector. He gave all firms three months up to July 1 to seek fresh renewal of licenses upon proving tax compliance one of the core conditions that betting and gaming firms had to meet before having their licences renewed.
But as it is at the moment, sportpesa has given in to the battle against KRA. SportPesa said it has been subjected to punitive measures by regulators such as delayed license renewal and the suspension of Paybill numbers, which have reduced the level of business operations. This informed the firms decision to cancel all sports sponsorships.
“We regrettably wish to announce that due to the uncertainty of this situation SportPesa will be cancelling sports sponsorships effective immediately. All clubs and partners will have received notices as provided for in their contracts.
“This despite the existence of a court order prohibiting the regulator from taking such actions. We greatly value our partnerships and we will endeavour to resume support to the best of our ability when the business recovers,” the firm said.
Although the firm insisted that it was tax compliant, SportPesa was among the 27 betting firms whose licences the government refused to renew over a tax row.
