Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has called on Kenyans to exhibit good behaviour during the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN 2025), set to take place from August 2 to August 30, 2025, across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
In a statement addressing the nation, Murkomen emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and hospitality during the tournament, urging citizens to avoid disruptive chants such as “Ruto must go” or “wantam” that have marked recent anti-government protests.
This appeal comes amid heightened political tensions and widespread unrest in the country, with the government aiming to project a positive image during the international event.
The CHAN 2025 tournament, a prestigious football competition exclusively for players in domestic leagues, is expected to draw thousands of visitors to Kenya, with matches scheduled at the renovated Kasarani Stadium and other venues.
Murkomen highlighted that hosting CHAN 2025 is a significant opportunity for Kenya to showcase its cultural heritage and organisational capabilities on a continental stage.
“Let us demonstrate to Africa and the world that Kenya is a peaceful and welcoming nation,” he said, underscoring the need for unity and decorum. The government has finalised preparations, including security drills and visa-free entry for tournament visitors, to ensure a smooth experience.
Recent protests in Kenya, driven by Gen Z and fueled by discontent over economic challenges, corruption, and unfulfilled campaign promises, have seen chants like “Ruto must go” and “wantam” (meaning “one term”) dominate public discourse.
These slogans, popularised during the Saba Saba demonstrations on July 7, 2025, have become rallying cries for those demanding President William Ruto’s resignation.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported 38 deaths and over 130 injuries during these protests, raising concerns about excessive police force.
Murkomen’s call for good behaviour is seen as an effort to prevent such sentiments from overshadowing the CHAN 2025 tournament.
Murkomen’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions. Some Kenyans view the directive as a pragmatic move to safeguard the country’s reputation during the high-profile event.
“Hosting CHAN 2025 is a chance to put Kenya on the map for positive reasons,” said James Otieno, a Nairobi-based football fan. Others, however, see it as an attempt to suppress dissent.
“Telling us not to chant ‘Ruto must go’ feels like silencing our voices,” said Mercy Wanjiku, a university student and protest participant.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with debates over the balance between free expression and national image. The government’s focus on good behaviour aligns with broader efforts to stabilise the country amid ongoing unrest.
President Ruto, elected in 2022 on a platform of economic reform and representing the “hustler nation,” has faced mounting criticism for failing to deliver on promises.
Protests, which began over a controversial tax bill in mid-2024, have evolved into a broader movement demanding systemic change. The interior ministry, under Murkomen’s leadership, has been accused of adopting a hardline stance, with reports of police being instructed to shoot protesters in the legs to curb violence. This has drawn condemnation from human rights groups and opposition leaders.
As Kenya prepares for CHAN 2025, the government is prioritising security and infrastructure readiness. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya recently confirmed that Kasarani Stadium will be ready by December 2024, with renovations completed to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards.
The tournament is expected to boost local economies, with hotels, transport, and tourism sectors anticipating a surge in activity.
Murkomen stressed that good behaviour from citizens is crucial to ensuring the event’s success and fostering national pride. “Let’s show the world that Kenya is more than protests; we are a nation of talent and hospitality,” he added.
The call for restraint during CHAN 2025 comes at a time when Kenya’s political landscape is deeply polarised. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, now a vocal critic of Ruto, has rallied Kenyans in the diaspora to support efforts to oust the president, further amplifying the “Ruto must go” chant.
At a recent event in Seattle, Gachagua led supporters in chanting the slogan, highlighting the global reach of Kenya’s political unrest. Analysts suggest that Murkomen’s appeal is an attempt to shift focus from political grievances to national unity ahead of the tournament.
Football fans and community leaders have urged young Kenyans to channel their energy into supporting the Harambee Stars, Kenya’s national team, during CHAN 2025.
— KENYA GOSSIP HUB (@kenyasgossips) July 14, 2025
The tournament, which kicks off with matches against teams like DR Congo, is seen as a chance to unite the country through sport.
“Let’s rally behind our players and show the world what Kenya can achieve,” said Sarah Chelimo, a local football coach. With the global spotlight on Kenya, the government hopes that CHAN 2025 will be a moment of pride rather than a platform for political dissent.
In conclusion, as Kenya gears up for CHAN 2025, Murkomen’s call for good behaviour reflects the government’s desire to project stability and hospitality.
While the tournament offers a chance to boost Kenya’s international image, the underlying tensions from ongoing protests and the “Ruto must go” movement pose challenges. By fostering a peaceful environment, the government aims to ensure that CHAN 2025 leaves a lasting legacy of unity and progress for Kenya.
