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Kalonzo urges continued support for Harambee Stars after CHAN performance
23rd August, 2025 12:07 AM
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called on Kenyans to continue rallying behind Harambee Stars despite their quarter-final exit from the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
In a statement posted on his X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, Kalonzo praised the national team for their spirited campaign, saying they gave the country hope and unity through their performance.
“You gave us the opportunity to believe, to dream, to be part of this beautiful game. You dug deep, and I salute you, our Harambee Stars,” Kalonzo stated.
He also acknowledged the role played by fans, whom he described as the “Twelfth Man”, whose unwavering support was felt across the country.
“Our Twelfth Man, you all are incredible. Your voices rang loudly and proudly in every corner of our beautiful land. Continue to support,” he added.
Similar messages
His comments add to a long list of messages from leaders lauding Harambee stars despite their tournament exit.
In a statement posted on his X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, Gachagua expressed solidarity with the national team while celebrating their achievement of reaching the last eight.
“Our Stars, we’ve got your back. We stand with you every step of the way,” Gachagua stated.
The former Deputy President lauded the team’s resilience and determination, noting that their performance had inspired the nation.
“You fought with spirit and determination to elevate Kenya’s football to new heights, pushing through to the CHAN quarter-finals. Your resilience and passion inspire us all. Keep shining and making us proud!” Gachagua added.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, in a statement posted on his X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, also expressed pride in the national team’s campaign while encouraging them to channel their efforts toward future competitions.
“Exceptional play by HarambeeStars with a master class performance. We are proud of you, you gave it all for the love of Kenya,” Cherargei stated.
The Senator emphasised that despite the tournament exit, the team had exceeded expectations and elevated Kenya’s football profile internationally.
“You have outperformed yourselves, you have put Kenya on the world map of Football,” he stated.
End of the road
Kenya’s run at the 2025 African Nations Championship came to an abrupt end at the Moi Sports Centre in Kasarani on Friday, August 22, 2025, where they were defeated 4-3 on penalties by Madagascar in the quarter-finals.
Making their debut in the tournament, Harambee Stars initially seemed poised for a historic semi-final berth after Alphonce Omija’s powerful header gave them the lead shortly after the break.
However, moments later, a strike from striker Ryan Ogam was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.
Madagascar equalised in the 68th minute when Fenohasina Razafimanana converted a penalty after a foul in the box, sending the match into extra time.
With neither side able to score during extra time, the game was decided by penalties, where Madagascar held their nerve to win 4-3.
