Kaluma links Gachagua’s return to Harambee Stars’ CHAN exit
By Ascah Mwango, August 23, 2025Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has linked Harambee Stars’ painful exit from the 2025 African Nations Championship to the return of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
In a statement shared on his X account on Friday, August 22, Kaluma suggested that the national team had been recording impressive victories until Gachagua arrived back in the country.
“Harambee Stars have been winning with ease, until Gachagua returned to the country,” Kaluma stated.
Painful loss
Kenya’s dream run at the CHAN tournament came to an end at the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani, where they lost 4-3 to Madagascar in a penalty shootout after a tense 1-1 draw. It was a heartbreaking conclusion to the team’s debut campaign, which had raised hopes across the country.
The hosts looked on course for a semifinal spot when Alphonce Omija rose high to head home a set piece and put Kenya ahead shortly after the break. The stadium erupted in celebration, but the joy was cut short when Madagascar equalised from the penalty spot in the 68th minute. Fenohasina Razafimanana sent goalkeeper Bryne Omondi the wrong way to level the score.
Kenya had moments to steal the win. Ryan Ogam had a goal ruled out for a foul earlier in the build-up, while Mike Kibwage saw his late effort cleared off the line. The game went into extra time and later penalties, where Madagascar held their nerve to win 4-3 and secure a place in the semifinals.
Under coach Benni McCarthy, the Harambee Stars had surprised many by topping their group, famously referred to as the pool of death. The team’s strong showing had marked them as one of the tournament’s dark horses.
Gachagua’s return
As the football drama unfolded, political heat was also rising in Nairobi following Rigathi Gachagua’s dramatic return to Kenya. The former Deputy President had spent over a month in the United States, where he openly criticised the Ruto administration.
He returned on Thursday, August 21, 2025, to chaotic scenes at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport that saw police fire teargas as his supporters clashed with officers.
A planned rally at Kamukunji Grounds failed to take place after Gachagua did not appear. On Friday, August 22, 2025, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen ordered investigations into the violence that marred the former DP’s homecoming.