Former Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President Sammy Shollei has credited Harambee Stars’ resurgence in the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) to a change in leadership and merit-based player selections.

Speaking on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, during an interview with a local TV station, Shollei noted that for the first time, the head coach has been granted full independence in selecting the squad.

He praised current coach Bennie McCarthy for treating all players equally, without external interference or favouritism.

“What has worked for Harambee Stars is the existence of a new office and the fact that the coach has been given a free hand; it has never happened before,” Shollei said.

“The previous FKF president had a team that he would push to the national team without merit. Bennie McCarthy is treating all the players equally,” he added.

Ruto’s incentives

Speaking during the same interview, former Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee lauded President William Ruto’s incentive to the national football team, describing it as a “game-changer” that will shift the players’ focus from financial worries to on-pitch results during the CHAN tournament.

Mulee said the monetary boost from the Head of State had helped “cool the nerves” of the players, creating an environment where their primary concern is performance.

“The incentive is something that is a game-changer for the players. The incentive that the President gave is just to cool the nerves of the players. Money is not everything, but it is a very good motivation. Now the players don’t think about money; they think about results,” Mulee said.

Delayed or unpaid dues

The veteran tactician noted that football in Kenya has historically struggled with issues of delayed or unpaid dues, making the president’s gesture a timely morale booster.

Mulee believes that with the unity and renewed energy around the team, Harambee Stars have what it takes to go all the way in the tournament.

“They just want results. Football in Kenya has been one of the worst sports in terms of payment. What I have seen with the team and the country has been united together; I believe that Harambee Stars will be in the finals,” he said.