NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has clarified why he did not attend the Harambee Stars’ stunning 1-0 victory over two-time champions Morocco in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Sunday.
During a visit to the national team’s hotel, the President apologized for missing the historic match, explaining that his absence was due to a late return from official duties and security advice.
“I apologise for not joining you yesterday because I came late from another assignment,” Ruto told the players. “I was advised that if I arrived late at the venue, people might storm the stadium, and perhaps things would not turn out well.”
Earlier that day, the President had been in Kiambu County for a Sunday church service and to inspect Affordable Housing Programme projects. Although he was not at the stadium, Ruto said he followed the match on television and was thoroughly impressed by the team’s performance.
He specifically commended the team’s discipline after midfielder Chrispine Erambo was sent off just before halftime. “I watched the game, and you played superbly. It was as if you were used to playing with 10 men,” he remarked.
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The decisive goal was scored by Ryan Ogam in the 42nd minute, his first for the national team, which ended Morocco’s 14-match unbeaten run in the tournament.
The victory has solidified Kenya’s position in the race for a spot in the quarter-finals.
Ruto praised the players for their “outstanding, phenomenal” commitment, stating that the win reflected a nation’s collective effort to rise.
“You made Kenya proud. We started together, I told you what you need to do, what other Kenyans need to do, and what I needed to do. I am happy that everyone is doing their part,” he said. “This is Kenya’s time. This is our moment. We must do whatever it takes and make the necessary sacrifices.”