Blow for relegation-threatened Ulinzi Stars as quintet join Kenya Defence Forces training
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 13.11.25. | 20:02
The temporary absence of these players comes at a critical juncture in the campaign, leaving the Stephen Ocholla-coached side facing an uphill battle in the league
The 2010 FKF Premier League champions, Ulinzi Stars, have suffered a significant setback following the departure of five key first-team players who are set for Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) training.
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As a club deeply rooted in the military set up, Ulinzi Stars relies primarily on personnel drawn from the armed forces.
The temporary absence of these players comes at a critical juncture in the campaign, leaving the Stephen Ocholla-coached side facing an uphill battle in the league.
Among those called for training is Leonlevitt Otieno, the attacking midfielder acquired from Kariobangi Sharks during the off-season transfer window.
Otieno had quickly established himself as a regular starter and a creative force in Ulinzi’s midfield.
In defense, the loss of Felix Otieno, a dependable right centre-back, is expected to have a major impact.
The defender joined Ulinzi last season from National Super League (NSL) side Migori Youth FC and quickly became a commanding presence in the team’s backline.
The remaining trio of Joseph Omuse, Frederick Oduor, and Joseph Ochieng also depart for military training.
Omuse, formerly of St. Anthony's Boys High School - Kitale, and Ochieng, from Agoro Sare High School, were integrated into the squad last season, while Oduor joined at the start of the ongoing FKF Premier League 2025/26 season from St. Joseph’s FC.
The timing of these departures could hardly be worse for Ulinzi Stars.
Eight matches into the season, the four-time league champions are struggling for form, recording four losses, three draws, and a solitary win.
The club currently sits second from bottom with six points, just one point above APS Bomet, who occupy the last position in the 18-team league.
The military training roster triple effect also includes Tusker FC attacker Issa Lumumba, who has left the Brewers after barely four months, cutting short his stint with the 12-time league champions, having joined from the 2010 winners.
Additionally, four players from the FKF Women’s Premier League side Ulinzi Starlets, Lavender Akinyi, Mary Ojenge, Tabitha Amoit, and Joy Kinglady, will also report for military recruit training at the KDF Training School.
