KRU AGM postponed as affiliates demand resolution of internal disputes

The Kenya Rugby Union Annual General Meeting (AGM) slated for Monday 24 March was adjourned following a decision by the affiliates to allow the board time to address ongoing internal disputes.

This move comes after the Sports Tribunal’s directive for the board to resolve these issues through mediation before proceeding with the meeting.

As a result, the AGM will be reconvened within thirty days, providing the necessary time for the board to settle the matters at hand and ensure a smoother process when the meeting resumes.

Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News!!!

The KRU found itself entangled in leadership disputes following an impromptu board meeting on March 6, which allegedly resulted in the suspension of Chairman Alexander Sasha Mutai.

The decision was fiercely contested by Mutai, who maintained that his suspension was unlawful and politically driven.

According to reports from Raga House, Mutai’s suspension was linked to several allegations, key among them being the irregular hiring of Kenya Sevens team manager Steve Sewe without following due process.

Sewe was reportedly approved for a salary above the designated scale, a decision attributed to Mutai’s influence.

Additionally, under Sewe’s management, five Shujaa players were turned away at the check-in counter before the Vancouver 7s tournament, resulting in a last-minute travel arrangement that cost the union Ksh1.35 million.

Kenya failed to win any matches at the event. Mutai was accused of attempting to veto disciplinary action against Sewe despite these logistical failures.

Further accusations against Mutai included allegedly sanctioning a Ksh1.3 million payment to a digital brand group for the Super Series Rugby launch, which he was said to have single-sourced. Additionally, he and director Wanjiru Waria were accused of leaking internal KRU documents to third parties without board approval.

Botswana becomes first African country to host World Athletics Relays

Mutai was also alleged to have supported a motion through Mwamba RFC against the vice-chairman, treasurer, secretary, and a director, although the motion was later withdrawn.

The chairman, however, dismissed the motion calling for his removal, arguing that it was time-barred.

Nine KRU board members signed the motion calling for Mutai’s ouster, stating that his leadership did not align with the Union’s vision and aspirations.

The signatories included Vice-Chairman Moses Ndale, who assumed the role of acting chairman, Secretary Raymond Olendo, Treasurer Joshua Aroni, and Directors Harnet Okach, Leslie Mwangale, John Kilonzo, Moses Mukabane, Ochieng Ahaya, and Humphrey Kayange.

Appearing on Citizen TV, Mutai hit back at his critics, particularly Secretary Olendo. He alleged that Olendo had sued KRU for legal fees despite Mutai terminating the contract of Orare and Company Advocates upon assuming office in 2023.

Mutai further claimed that a potential sponsorship deal in 2023 was canceled after Olendo’s legal action against the KRU, aggravating the union’s financial woes.

Sasha Mutai reveals Kenya Sevens target in Hong Kong 7s

Mutai maintained that his suspension was null and void, arguing that the KRU secretary had no authority to convene the meeting that led to the decision.

He insisted that the accusations against him were part of a broader fight against corruption within the Union.

Following his suspension, Mutai moved to the Sports Disputes Tribunal, filing an urgent case against the KRU Board.