Murang’a Seal Player Addresses Viral Video Mocking Harambee Stars’ CHAN Exit

Murang’a Seal forward Victor Haki has been forced to issue a public apology after facing national outrage following a video of himself appearing to celebrate Harambee Stars’ elimination from the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Benni McCarthy’s side crashed out heartbreakingly on Friday, August 22, losing 4-3 on penalties to Madagascar, who continued their fairytale run in the tournament.
In the wake of Harambee Stars’ defeat, a video surfaced showing Haki making a mockery of the national team, prompting outrage on social media.
Kenyans, who were ardently following and backing the national team throughout the championships, called for sanctions to be imposed on Haki, prompting the forward to issue a statement.
“I want to sincerely apologise for the video I shared after Harambee Stars’ loss to Madagascar,” Haki said in his statement as he admitted the video depicted an error of judgment.
He added, “I realise it came across as insensitive and disappointing, especially when the entire nation was hurting. It was unpatriotic, in bad taste, and not a true reflection of the respect I have for Harambee Stars, the players, the coaches, and the millions of fans who proudly stand behind our team.”
While he has since deleted the video, Haki further added that the backlash he received was a learning curve for him.
As far as his playing career is concerned, Haki’s Murang’a Seals had a fairly underwhelming season in the Kenya Premier League during the 2024/2025 season, finishing in 13th place, just two points off the bottom side City Stars.
Kenya was on the verge of qualifying for the CHAN 2024 semis when Gor Mahia defender Alphonse Omiha put the nation ahead early in the second half, but Madagascar equalised from the penalty spot following a handball in the area.
The two nations could not be separated in extra time, with the game boiling down to a penalty shootout. Omija and Michael Kibwage missed their spot kicksto give Madagascar the crucial victory.
Despite Harambee Stars players missing out on a Ksh1 million cash reward and the chance to own an Affordable Housing unit courtesy of the government, President William Ruto promised the players an additional thank-you package in recognition of their outstanding performance at the championships.
Speakingto the Stars after Friday’s match on August 22, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki conveyed a message from the President, assuring the boys that he and the nation were proud of their efforts and the unity they had brought to the country during the tournament.