Ngunjiri Wambugu says Gachagua’s presence could have affected Harambee Stars’ performance
By Mabonga Makhanu, August 10, 2025Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has stated that the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s presence in the country during Harambee Stars’ match against Morocco may have negatively affected the team’s performance.
In a statement released after the match on Sunday, August 10, 2025, Ngunjiri, known for being a vocal critic of Gachagua, suggested that the negative energy from the the former deputy president could have been a distraction for the players.
He also questioned the assurances given by President William Ruto regarding the promised financial rewards of one million shillings for each win and five hundred thousand for a draw. Ngunjiri claimed that Gachagua might have discouraged the players by telling them that the president would not fulfil this promise.
“Let’s be honest. If Gachagua had been around, the amount of negative energy he would be spewing at us would certainly have affected Harambee Stars. For one, he would have told them Ruto will not give them the 1M,” he said.
Ngunjiri further added that Gachagua should avoid being in the country until the CHAN tournament concludes and should travel abroad again during the AFCON competition to prevent any potential distractions.
“But he should not come back before CHAN is over. And he must travel away again during AFCON; guys can even raise the fare for him again.” He added,
The match
The Harambee Stars pulled off a gutsy 1-0 victory over tournament heavyweights Morocco at a packed Kasarani Stadium, sealing top spot in Group A of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in front of over 40,000 roaring fans.
Ryan Ogam’s 42nd-minute strike proved decisive, but the win came under intense pressure after midfielder Chrispine Erambo was shown a straight red card just before half-time for a dangerous tackle, the second time in as many games Kenya has had a player sent off.
Coach Benni McCarthy, who had rung the changes by dropping several regular starters, including captain Omar Aboud and midfield creator Austin Odhiambo, saw his tactical shake-up pay early dividends.
Kenya pressed high from the opening whistle, even forcing an early corner in the fifth minute, and worked tirelessly to deny Morocco space.
Morocco enjoyed more possession but found Bryne Omondi in inspired form, notably denying El Mahraoui in the 35th minute. Kenya’s breakthrough came against the run of play: Boniface Omondi surged forward, fed the ball to Muchiri, whose shot was blocked. Ogam pounced on the rebound, driving the ball into the bottom right corner to ignite Kasarani.