Bandari appoint John Baraza as interim coach after Ken Odhiambo exit
By Kenneth Mwenda, September 30, 2025Bandari FC have confirmed the appointment of John Baraza as interim head coach following the exit of Ken Odhiambo.
The decision, announced on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, takes effect immediately as the Dockers move to stabilise their technical bench.
Baraza, a former Harambee Stars striker, steps up from his role as assistant coach. He will take charge of the team until the club appoints a permanent successor. Bandari stated that the move is part of efforts to get the team back on track after a difficult start to the new FKF Premier League season.
In the official statement, CEO Tony Kibwana expressed gratitude to Odhiambo for his service.
“We appreciate the former head coach, Mr Ken Odhiambo, for his contribution to the team and wish him success in his next role,” he said.
Odhiambo, who was appointed in July 2024, leaves after a run of mixed results. Last season, he guided the Dockers to an eighth-place finish, collecting 44 points from ten wins, fourteen draws, and ten losses. However, this campaign has started poorly, with the team struggling to pick up momentum in the opening fixtures.
Defeat to Shabana
The home defeat to Shabana on Sunday appeared to be the turning point. The visitors claimed a narrow 1-0 win at Mbaraki Stadium, leaving Bandari winless after two rounds of league action.
The Glamour Boys defended with discipline and frustrated the Dockers, who were already without three Harambee Stars regulars, Dennis Ng’ang’a, Benjamin “Beja” Nyamawi, and Swaleh Pamba, through injury and health issues. The result intensified pressure on Odhiambo and raised questions about the team’s direction.
Baraza now takes charge at a critical moment. Widely respected for his achievements as a player, he carries the task of steadying the squad and restoring belief among the supporters. His previous spell as interim coach in early 2024 gives him familiarity with the role, although expectations will be high this time.
For now, Baraza will have to work with the players available and build confidence within the camp. The Dockers lost several key figures in the recent transfer window, including Siraj Mohammed, Fidel Origa, and goalkeeper Bryne Odhiambo, who joined Gor Mahia. Their absence has left gaps in the squad, which new arrivals are still adjusting to fill.