There was a burst of laughter at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Wednesday when Harambee Stars goalkeeper Farouk Shikanda cheekily introduced himself as Farouk Kibet, the name of President William Ruto’s influential aide.
President Ruto had visited the national team during their training session after inspecting the stadium, which is set to host the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) next month.
He was accompanied by Cabinet Secretaries Soipan Tuya (Defence) and Salim Mvurya (Sports), among other top officials.
The President was having a light-hearted moment with the players and team officials on their preparations for the highly anticipated competition.
During the meet-and-greet session led by head coach Benny McCarthy, members of the technical bench were the first to speak, before it was the players’ turn.
One after another, they recited their names, along with the respective clubs they represented.
When it came to Shikanda’s turn, the goalkeeper, clearly seizing the moment, boldly said “Farouk Kibet” before he could continue, prompting a roar of laughter from teammates, officials, and even the President himself.
The calculated move was widely seen as a humorous tribute to Ruto’s famously close aide, Farouk Kibet, a behind-the-scenes power player known for both loyalty and influence.
The move may have also been a subtle nod of admiration aimed at the President himself.
Kibet, who has been a central figure in Ruto’s political journey, is admired by many, with critics likening him to a modern-day “co-president.”
He is the gatekeeper to the President and oversees access to him, shaping policy agendas, and executing primary functions in and outside the State House.
Earlier, team captain Abud Omar also lightened the mood when he made a subtle request to the President on behalf of teammate Boniface Muchiri, who also serves as a soldier.
“Asante Rais kwa ushirikiano wako...Tuko na one of our key players na ni soldier. Na pia yeye ni hustler kama vile unavyopenda kusema. Kama kuna vile unaweza muangalia kidogo, tutashukuru kama team," Omar said with a grin.
Ruto responded with equal playfulness: “Aje? Nimemuangalia....alright nimeshikanisha” sparking even more laughter.
He also wished them well in their preparations, encouraging them to fly the national flag high, noting the government was entirely behind them.
Ruto told them that his presence at the stadium was to boost their morale, reminding the players of their responsibility to represent 55 million Kenyans.
"That is why I have come here as President, to tell you guys we trust you,” he said, urging them to count on the unity of the leaders.
He assured them they will be coming to the stadium to cheer them on as they play.
“The country is praying for you. We believe in you, your capacity and in your profession and will proudly cheer you," he added.
