This archive report was first published on 3 October 2019.
On October 3, 2019, Kenya's Sports Principal Secretary Kirimi Kaberia and Kenya Volleyball Federation president Waithaka Kioni called on Paul Bitok to reconsider his decision to step down as the national women's volleyball team coach.
Bitok had announced his decision to quit as the team's caretaker coach, but would remain available in an advisory role. However, his departure has sparked concerns about the team's momentum ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Speaking at a luncheon in Nairobi, Kaberia expressed his desire to engage with President Uhuru Kenyatta to find a solution to retain Bitok as the team's coach.
"Please stick with the team," Kaberia pleaded. "I'm sure after talking with the president, we will have a solution. But as a ministry, we want to recognize and appreciate the team for what they have done."
Kioni also extended an olive branch to Bitok, acknowledging his significant contributions to the team's success.
"Bitok coming to the team was timely," Kioni noted. "He steadied a ship that was about to sink, and it's only fair that the ship remains firm."
Bitok has since expressed his willingness to work with the team if offered a contract.
