Not a way to treat Kenya's stars

The contemptible manner in which Kenya's sports administrators often treat our heroes is well documented. But Sunday's events were quite despicable.

Bizarre as it may sound, World javelin champion Julius Yego and 1,500m medal prospect Elijah Manangoi, would have been left behind as Team Kenya flew out to Brazil if it were not for their teammates' loud protests, which exposed the shambolic arrangements by sports' managers. The net effect on their psyche to play for their country cannot be underestimated. Yet, even as they fought for a seat on the plane, some legislators were already sun-bathing in the famed Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro underscoring the lopsided priorities of our sports authorities.

And while the country seethes with rage at the shabby treatment of such gold-medal prospects, those charged with handling the athletes are passing the buck and no one wants to take responsibility.

After the embarrassing events at the 2012 London Olympics, it was expected this time round, at least, they would get things right. Not at all. Perhaps it is because no sanctions were handed out that those culpable got more daring. By subjecting our famed athletes to mistreatment, officials of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, Ministry of Sports and Athletics Kenya must be held responsible.