In a dramatic turn of events, Kenya Police FC, the defending champions of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup, have sacked their entire technical bench following a disappointing start to the 2024/2025 FKF Premier League season.
The unexpected decision comes after growing frustrations within the club over poor results, marking a sudden and significant change for one of Kenya’s most ambitious football teams.
Disappointment Fuels Drastic Action
Reports suggest that the decision was heavily influenced by Chris Onguso, the club’s CEO, who had been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the team’s recent performance. Onguso’s stern warning to the technical bench hinted at major changes if results didn’t improve.
“If our dear chairman, Mr. Nyale, and Board Chairman Dr. Bishop Akama forgive you for the poor results in recent matches, they must have thick skin. As for me, I will not have any kind words. I’m ready to fire everyone and start anew,” Onguso reportedly told the team.
The ultimatum turned into action, with the dismissal of head coach Salim Babu, his assistants, and the entire technical team. The club has yet to release an official statement, but sources within Kenya Police FC have confirmed the sweeping changes.
In a bold and historic move, Beldine Odemba has been appointed interim head coach, becoming only the second woman to coach a top-tier FKF Premier League team after Jackline Juma of Talanta FC. Odemba, who led the Kenya Police Bullets to an unbeaten campaign in the 2023/24 FKF Women’s Premier League, now faces the daunting task of steadying the ship for the men’s senior team.
“Yes, it’s true. Babu and his team have been let go, and Beldine and her staff will take charge on an interim basis until a new coach is appointed in the coming weeks,” a source told SportPesa Blog.
Interestingly, the players themselves have reportedly not yet been informed of these changes, adding an air of uncertainty to the team’s preparation for upcoming matches.
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The decision to overhaul the technical bench comes after a disappointing start to the league campaign. Kenya Police have managed just one win in their first five matches, a 2-0 victory over Mathare United. Their other results include three draws against Tusker FC, Sofapaka, and Ulinzi Stars, and a narrow 1-0 loss to Shabana.
These results are a stark contrast to the team’s strong form over the past three years, which included lifting the 2023/24 FKF Cup—their first major silverware—and earning a historic spot in continental football. Unfortunately, their continental journey was cut short in the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup, where they faced Egyptian giants Zamalek SC.
Salim Babu’s Short-Lived Tenure
Salim Babu’s tenure as head coach began in December 2023 when he was promoted from his assistant role following the sacking of Croatian coach Zdravko Logarusic. Despite leading the team to their first FKF Cup title, Babu struggled to maintain consistency in the league this season.
Babu’s departure marks yet another chapter in Kenya Police’s turbulent managerial history. His assistant, Antony ‘Mondo’ Kimani, who held the CAF A coaching certification and acted as head coach during Babu’s absence, has also been let go. Meanwhile, Ishmael Balanga, who briefly served as technical director, stepped down just weeks before the latest shake-up.
What’s Next for Kenya Police?
With Odemba at the helm on an interim basis, Kenya Police now face the challenge of regrouping and salvaging their season. The team’s next fixture against Kariobangi Sharks, currently third on the league table, will be a crucial test. Odemba’s immediate focus will be on restoring confidence in the squad and addressing the tactical issues that have plagued their performances.
The club’s decision to bring in a trailblazing coach like Odemba has been met with a mix of surprise and optimism. Her success with the Kenya Police Bullets underscores her ability to lead and deliver results, but transitioning to the men’s top-tier league will be a significant challenge.
Odemba’s appointment is not just a stopgap measure; it’s a statement of intent. As one of the few women to coach at this level in Kenyan football, she brings a fresh perspective and a proven track record of success. Her achievement with the Bullets, who went unbeaten in the FKF Women’s Premier League, showcases her tactical acumen and ability to manage high-pressure situations.
Her leadership will be closely watched as Kenya Police navigate the uncertainty of a mid-season overhaul. Success under Odemba could pave the way for more women to take on leadership roles in Kenyan football, breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of female coaches.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The news of the sackings and Odemba’s interim role has sparked widespread discussion among Kenya Police fans and the broader Kenyan football community. While some view the decision as harsh given Babu’s FKF Cup triumph, others see it as necessary to address the team’s underwhelming league form.
Fans are eager to see how Odemba will handle the transition and whether she can inject new energy into a team that has struggled to find its rhythm this season. The upcoming matches will be critical in determining whether this gamble pays off.
