Why Sasha Mutai resigned as Kenya Rugby Union Chairman
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Reading Time: 3min | Sun. 01.06.25. | 07:36
Mutai’s resignation follows weeks of mounting pressure both locally and internationally
Sasha Mutai has opened up on his decision to step down as chairman of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU).
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Mutai tendered his resignation in a KRU Special General Meeting held on Friday, 30 May, at the RFUEA Grounds.
He did not mince his words, citing irreconcilable differences within the board and refusal to compromise on his integrity.
Speaking after the SGM, Mutai acknowledged that internal strife and allegations of dictatorship triggered his removal.
“So, there was an SGM, and some members were looking to eject me as chairman of the Kenya Rugby Union because of some allegations of dictatorship and the rest.
I read the mood in the room, and I decided to tender my resignation today as chairman of the Kenya Rugby Union because of certain things that I cannot compromise, such as my integrity,” Mutai said.
Mutai, who has served the game in multiple capacities over the years, including as director, vice chairman, and chairman for the past two years, highlighted the work he had done to restore confidence in the Union during his tenure.
“I love this game. I have done a lot for it before as director, vice chairman, and now for the two years I have had the opportunity of being the chairman of the Kenya Rugby Union,” he said.
“I brought back several sponsors, got the Kenya Sevens team to where it should be, and looked out for the player,” he offered.
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However, he pointed fingers at internal forces within the board that he believes undermined his leadership.
“Unfortunately, members of my board have questions of integrity. I had three board members who adduced three forged CRB certificates and two members who refused to vacate office, even though they had reached their term limits, and they all ganged up.
But unfortunately, it is democracy,” he alleged.
Mutai’s resignation follows weeks of mounting pressure both locally and internationally.
World Rugby had earlier written to KRU expressing deep concern over ongoing governance failures and lack of internal accountability, while the Senate also moved to probe KRU’s finances and leadership practices.
Despite the turmoil, Mutai maintained that he was leaving with pride and a clear conscience.
“I leave with my head held up high. Also, in terms of my integrity, I am in rugby forever. I have played the game, I have captained a few sides, and I have been director, vice chairman, and now chairman.
I leave with my head held high because of what I have managed to do,” he said.
He noted that his leadership started on a collaborative note but later became unsustainable due to internal resistance and hostility.
“At the beginning, we worked as a team, but the last few months have been untenable—lots of stress. So, let me go back home and watch rugby,” he disclosed.
Mutai's resignation now leaves KRU at a critical juncture.
With World Rugby closely monitoring developments and the national teams preparing for major international events, the Union will need strong, united leadership to steady the ship and rebuild trust.
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The Kenya Simbas are currently in South Africa, gearing up for the Rugby Africa Cup (RAC) slated for July in Uganda. The RAC is their shot at qualifying for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
At the same time, the Kenya Lionesses are gearing up for the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup, pencilled for Thursday, 1 to Monday, 16 June, in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
