Nyakera Defends Gachagua After Critics Link His Return to Harambee Stars’ CHAN Exit- “Fitina tu”
Nairobi’s Democracy for Citizens’ Party (DCP) patron, Irungu Nyakera, has spoken out in defense of party leader Rigathi Gachagua after claims surfaced that his return to Kenya was connected to Harambee Stars’ heartbreaking elimination from the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
In a statement posted on X on Saturday, August 23, 2025, Nyakera dismissed the rumours, insisting that Kenyans should instead pay attention to whether President William Ruto delivered on his KSh 2.5 million bonus promise to each player.
“Fitina tu. We need to verify if the last 2.5 was paid,” Nyakera wrote.
His remarks followed Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma’s suggestion that Gachagua’s return coincided with the national team’s decline in form. According to Kaluma, Kenya had been on a winning streak until the former Deputy President landed back in the country.
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Harambee Stars’ Painful CHAN Exit
Kenya’s CHAN dream ended in heartbreak at the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani. The Harambee Stars were eliminated in the quarterfinals after a 1-1 draw with Madagascar led to a tense penalty shootout, which they lost 4-3.
Alphonce Omija gave Kenya the lead in the second half, but Madagascar equalised from the penalty spot in the 66th minute. In the shootout, Madagascar held firm while Kenya missed crucial kicks.
This was Kenya’s first-ever appearance at CHAN, and they impressed by topping a tough group that included former champions Morocco, DR Congo, and Zambia. Their unbeaten run sparked national pride and raised high hopes.
During the tournament, President William Ruto had increased incentives for the players. He promised KSh 2.5 million each if they beat Zambia in their final group match, raising the offer from an earlier KSh 1 million. He also pledged every player a two-room house under the Affordable Housing Programme.
By then, the players had already pocketed KSh 1 million each for beating Morocco, another KSh 1 million for defeating DR Congo, and KSh 500,000 for drawing with Angola — a total of KSh 2.5 million per player. More wins meant more earnings, though the legality of such government-funded bonuses has been questioned.
Political Tension Around Gachagua’s Return
Gachagua’s homecoming on Thursday, August 21, 2025, was chaotic. Supporters clashed with police at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, forcing officers to fire teargas to disperse crowds.
A rally planned at Kamukunji Grounds failed after Gachagua did not appear. The next day, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen directed security agencies to investigate the violence that surrounded the former Deputy President’s return.
Nyakera Defends Gachagua After Critics Link His Return to Harambee Stars’ CHAN Exit- “Fitina tu”
