Kevin Kiarie Breaks Silence on Why He Declined State House Invite

Celebrated Kenyan skater Kevin Kiarie has revealed why he stayed away from the National Heroes Awards 2026, accusing the Ministry of Sports of misleading claims about supporting him and calling out Sports PS Elijah Mwangi by name.

Kiarie was named among the honourees at the awards, which were part of the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations on Tuesday, October 20, at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret.

President William Ruto led the event, which was co-hosted by Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet and Nandi counties, under a theme centred on security, sports and the finance sector.

The skater broke his silence on social media the following day. “Apparently, yesterday, I was included in the National Heroes Awards 2026. I did not attend the event, and I did not submit my details after they requested them,” he wrote.

He accused the ministry of making misleading claims about backing his participation at the African Skate Games. He also alleged that funds channelled through the federation never reached him. He ended the post with a direct message to the PS: “PS sports @ElijahGMwangi you can do better.”

The post drew swift reactions from Kenyans online. One user, m.tita_n, called him a hero who was not supported on the ground, while sports journalist carolradull said an award means little if a career is left to suffer, though she still congratulated him on a well-deserved honour.

Others, while sympathetic, felt he should still have submitted his details and collected the recognition. Users janveizer and justuskipkemoi both argued that he deserved the award regardless.

The episode has sparked debate on whether government recognition rings hollow when it is not matched by tangible support for athletes pursuing competitive careers.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1KNtyAE7NZ/