Why Muthee had to quit

Nairobi, Kenya: There was consensus among fans, sponsors and Government on what might have forced Mwangi Muthee to walk away from Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) - wrangling.

“It is so sad. We’ve lost a commitment and contribution to the game. I think he quit to pave way for another person to serve and we thank him for his immense contribution,” said Cabinet Secretary for Sports Hassan Wario.

Safaricom boss Bob Collymore could not hide his frustration. “We are saddened by his resignation. I wish him the best in future endeavours. We acknowledge the hard work and firm support he gave the Union. We are encouraged by the impressive strides made under his leadership,” he said.

“It’s a shock to me that the Chairman has resigned, but this is a decision that I respect and hope that KRU will come stronger after the current trying times.”

Philip Jalang’o, the Union’s Vice Chairman, who is the likeliest successor to Muthee, said he had no knowledge his boss had quit. “It’s shocking. I am not aware that Muthee has resigned. I will get back to you immediately after checking my mail,” he said.

It was disappointing for Simiyu Wangila, the Team Manager for Kenya 15s side. “It’s taken a lot of hard work to put rugby where it is right now. It would be good if we put our differences aside and make our boys proud,” he said. “Muthee has worked very hard to take the game to the grassroots, but the small issues in the board are killing rugby. It will take us ages to revive the game.”