NAIROBI, Kenya, January 21 – Prime Minister Raila Odinga has called on Football Kenya Limited to reinstate Francis Kimanzi as Harambee Stars coach.
The Premier said that Kimanzi had done a good job so far and remains the team’s best hope while the government shops for a professional coach of international standards.
He warned that appointing a new Stars’ coach at this time would jeopardize the country’s chances of qualifying for the 20101 World Cup and African Cup of Nations tournaments. Raila observed that the team should currently be fine-tuning its preparations and thus the status quo should remain.
His statement comes just a day after the Ministry of Sports released a statement regarding the sacking of Kimanzi and promised to give proper direction.
At the same time, the PM has thrown his weight behind FKL urging Kenya’s soccer fraternity to support the newly formed body.
He also warned Kenya Football Federation chairman Sam Nyamweya to stay off football matters for the sake of the game and the youth who are trying to earn a living from it.
Raila said Nyamweya was not acting in the interest of the game because the World soccer governing body does not recognize it.
Kimanzi was sacked by FKL last weekend for what FKL termed as indiscipline and high headedness. His assistants Yusuf Chipo and James Nandwa as well as team manager Peter Serry were also shown the door.
John Bobby Ogolla was appointed the new coach assisted by Sony Sugar tactician Francis Barasa.
Meanwhile the national football team left for Egypt early this morning for their scheduled friendly against the Pharoahs on Friday night.
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