Government Pushes Ahead With ‘Bakuli’ Plastic Seats at Talanta Stadium Despite Fan Protests

The government has moved forward with installing ‘Bakuli’ plastic seats at Talanta Stadium, brushing aside months of criticism from supporters who were hoping for a more modern alternative.

Fresh images showing progress at the under-construction Talanta Sports City Stadium, also known as Raila Odinga Stadium, have sparked renewed debate. The photos, which capture workers fastening the fixed bucket-style plastic seats into place, have reignited concerns that had been simmering for months.

From the outset, fans questioned the decision to use the so-called ‘Bakuli’ seats. Many argued that the design lacks comfort, feels outdated, and does not reflect the standards seen in contemporary stadiums. Others raised concerns about whether the seats align with modern FIFA and CAF expectations for major tournaments. With the latest visuals now circulating online, it appears the government has chosen to stay the course.

Government Proceeds With ‘Bakuli’ Seats

Earlier this year, mixed reports created brief optimism among supporters. There were murmurs within football circles suggesting officials might reconsider the seating plan and switch to foldable chairs — a feature common in newer stadiums around the world.

Speculation even emerged that a small batch of already-installed seats had been removed, fuelling hopes that a redesign was underway.

However, recent updates from the construction site tell a different story. Rather than dismantling, the images show steady progress, with more ‘Bakuli’ seats being secured onto the terraces. Any anticipated U-turn now appears unlikely. For many observers, what seemed like a possible policy shift has instead turned into confirmation that the original plan remains intact.

A post shared on the official Kasarani Stadium social media page struck an upbeat tone:

“Seat installation at Talanta Sports City Stadium (Raila Odinga Stadium) has hit top gear! It’s a full sprint against time as we gear up for AFCON 2027 — and it’s getting real!”

Talanta Stadium: Fan Backlash Reignited

The update has triggered another wave of online frustration. A section of Kenyan football fans expressed disappointment, saying their earlier objections were not taken seriously.

Comments ranged from sarcastic remarks to outright criticism, with some questioning why a multi-billion-shilling project would settle for what they consider basic plastic seating. Others maintained that foldable seats had previously been promised and accused authorities of backtracking.

Still, not everyone shares the outrage. Sports administrator Nicholas Musonye dismissed claims that the seats are substandard. He defended the installation, insisting the chairs are comfortable and suitable for the venue.

“No, they are not substandard,” Musonye said. “If he goes there, he will be very comfortable. The seats are okay.”

As construction intensifies ahead of AFCON 2027, the seating debate remains one of the most talked-about aspects of the Talanta Stadium project.