Veteran coach John Baraza ended his stint with Bandari FC just two days after the club appointed Mohammed Borji as head coach and Tarik Bendamou as his assistant.
Bandari CEO Tony Kibwana said both parties agreed to part ways after discussing the club’s new direction. Baraza’s two-year contract was supposed to run until January 2026, but both sides mutually ended it earlier.
Kibwana said they met Baraza after Borji’s arrival to outline the team’s plans. However, they failed to agree on the new direction. “After we introduced the new coach, we met Baraza to discuss our vision. It didn’t match his expectations, so we agreed to separate,” Kibwana said.
He praised Baraza for his effort and dedication to the club. Kibwana also wished him success in his future career. Baraza joined Bandari in October 2023 after coach Twahir Muhidin left. He became head coach in January 2024 and signed a two-year deal.
Baraza helped Bandari make a strong comeback during his time in charge. He lifted the team from 11th to 4th place in the 2023–2024 Kenyan Premier League season. His tactical decisions and discipline boosted the players’ confidence and improved performance.
In July 2024, Bandari reshuffled its technical team. The club appointed former Harambee Stars assistant coach Ken Odhiambo as head coach and moved Baraza to assistant coach. Under the new leadership, Bandari finished 8th in the 2024–2025 season with 44 points from 10 wins, 14 draws, and 10 losses.
Kibwana said he remains confident in the new leadership. He urged fans to rally behind the technical bench and support the team’s ambition to reclaim its top position next season. source citizen
