KRU chairman Mwangi Muthee resigns

Mwangi Muthee addressing journalists on March 11, 2014. FILE PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU |

What you need to know:

  • Muthee’s term was due to end on February.
  • His resignation comes in the wake of similar moves by Union directors Godwin Karuga and Maurice Masiga and Kenya Sevens coach Paul Treu.

Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) chairman Mwangi Muthee has resigned.

Muthee, who has served in the capacity for four years, said recent happenings at the board had compelled him to resign since his agenda of driving the game forward was being derailed.

Muthee’s term was due to end on February.

His resignation comes in the wake of similar moves by Union directors Godwin Karuga and Maurice Masiga and Kenya Sevens coach Paul Treu.

Muthee raised concerns over the integrity of some board members.

KRU secretary Eddie Omondi described Muthee’s resignation as unfortunate but said the Union remains functional.

Omondi said the board would convene an urgent meeting before the end of the week to choose among themselves who takes over in acting capacity.

“I am glad and proud to have served our game and country for close to four years. My efforts went into developing the game towards a world class status as well as its expansion throughout the country.

“I will always be very satisfied with my contribution and fond of all those in our country and abroad who gave me support in achieving our goals,” said Muthee.

Muthee, who beat incumbent Richard Omwela to become chairman in 2011, described his first two years as chairman as remarkable due to the tremendous strides made, including significant support by sponsors.

Muthee noted the performances of the national Sevens side during that period, reaching the semi-finals of the Sevens Rugby World Cup as well as finishing fifth overall during the IRB Sevens World Series in 2012/13.

Muthee said after mid-term elections, things were never the same.

He alleged conflict of interest in the supplying of kit to KRU and the rugby fraternity and questionable procurement of airline tickets worth millions of shillings outside established KRU channels.

“There were questionable hotel accommodation contracts and many other inflated bills and cases of unbecoming language to downright insulting language directed at senior management of some of our sponsors,” said Muthee.

Muthee said he was committed to a full investigation into these matters and towards a correction through an audit.

He thanked individuals and firms that supported KRU during his tenure.