Life after the whistle: Mutai turns page after tumultuous KRU exit

After tendering his resignation from the helm of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), Michael Mutai says he’s stepping away from the boardroom but not from the game he loves.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Mutai reflected on a tenure marked by turbulence, transformation and ultimately, integrity.

Mutai, who officially resigned during a Special General Meeting (SGM) on Friday, says he’s walking away “with his head held high,” proud of the reforms and results achieved during his time as chairman.

“I have worked all my life on integrity,” he said. “I cannot let my reputation be messed up for the sake of self-preservation as chairman.”

Now, with the dust settling, Mutai is beginning to shape what life looks like after the KRU. Mutai says he’s taking time off to focus on personal ventures and community leadership, but rugby remains part of his DNA.

A former player who once broke bones in the line of duty, Mutai emphasised that his commitment to the sport is for life, not just the chairmanship.

“Rugby is dear to me. I will always support it,” he said.

Mutai’s resignation followed months of boardroom infighting. He accused some directors of forging CRB certificates and overstaying beyond their legally allowed terms, allegations that led to investigations and deep divisions within the board.

“I asked them to resign because I was working on integrity. Instead, they ganged up and pushed a vote of no confidence,” Mutai said.

The tipping point came when World Rugby issued a second letter highlighting governance concerns at KRU. Mutai says he could no longer ignore the rot.

“If my shirt is white and nine directors say it's black, it’s still white,” he quipped, underscoring his refusal to compromise on principles.

Under his leadership, Mutai managed to restore credibility to a struggling union, bringing back key sponsors like Safaricom and Kenya Airways, despite ongoing legal disputes when he took office.

He departs at a pivotal moment for Kenyan rugby. The men's 15s are preparing for a World Cup qualifier, the women's team is headed to Madagascar for the Africa Cup, and the 7s are en route to Mauritius for the Africa Sevens.

But with board infighting unresolved and possible World Rugby sanctions looming, Mutai's absence leaves a vacuum and a big shoe to fill. Despite the bruising exit, Mutai is optimistic.

“I am not a good politician, but I get results. Management is about results, and the results are there.”

Whether he returns to sports leadership or charts a new path in public service or advocacy, one thing is clear: Mutai isn’t done making an impact. And while he may have stepped off the field of rugby administration, he promises his next chapter will be just as bold and uncompromising.