Murang’a Seal forward Victor Haki has issued a public apology after facing a wave of criticism across the country. This came after a video of him celebrating Harambee Stars’ painful exit from the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) went viral, sparking national outrage.
Harambee Stars, coached under South Africa legend Benni McCarthy, were heartbreakingly knocked out of the competition on Friday, August 22, after a tense 4-3 penalty shootout loss to Madagascar. The island nation, who have been the surprise package of the tournament, extended their remarkable run at Kenya’s expense.
Shortly after Kenya’s elimination, a clip emerged online showing Haki mocking the national team’s defeat. The video quickly spread on social media, provoking anger from Kenyans who had passionately supported the Harambee Stars throughout the tournament.
Many fans called for disciplinary action against the player, insisting that his behavior was not only disrespectful but also unpatriotic.
Responding to the uproar, Haki released a formal apology.
“I want to sincerely apologise for the video I shared after Harambee Stars’ loss to Madagascar,” his statement read. “I understand it was an error of judgment.
I realise it came across as insensitive and disappointing, especially when the whole country was hurting. It was unpatriotic, in bad taste, and does not reflect the respect I hold for Harambee Stars, their players, the coaching staff, and the millions of fans who proudly support them.”
He added that the backlash he has received has been a learning experience, acknowledging that athletes carry the responsibility of being role models both on and off the pitch. Haki has since deleted the controversial video from his platforms.
From a footballing perspective, Haki’s club Murang’a Seal did not have a strong season in the 2024/2025 Kenya Premier League.
The team finished in 13th place, narrowly avoiding relegation by only two points above bottom side City Stars. This performance has put pressure on the squad and coaching staff to regroup ahead of the new season.
Kenya, meanwhile, came agonisingly close to making history at CHAN 2024. Defender Alphonse Omiha of Gor Mahia had given the Harambee Stars the lead early in the second half, raising hopes of a semifinal appearance. However, Madagascar equalised through a penalty awarded after a handball incident.
With the score level at full-time and no breakthrough in extra time, the contest was decided from the penalty spot. Unfortunately for Kenya, Omiha and Michael Kibwage missed their spot-kicks, handing Madagascar a ticket to the semifinals and ending the Harambee Stars’ spirited run.
The loss also meant Kenya’s players missed out on promised rewards, including a Ksh1 million cash prize and the chance to receive a unit under the government’s Affordable Housing program.
Still, President William Ruto pledged to recognise the team’s heroic performance with an additional “thank you” package, praising their resilience and the pride they brought to the nation.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, speaking to the team immediately after the heartbreaking defeat, delivered a message of encouragement from the Head of State.
He told the players that both the government and the people of Kenya were proud of their efforts, adding that the unity and passion they displayed during the tournament had lifted the nation’s spirit.
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