Athletics Kenya President Kiplagat tells off his critics

Athletics Kenya President Isaiah Kiplagat ddressing the press conference during the launch of Family Bank Eldoret 21km on 30-09-2014 at Riadha House, Nairobi.PHOTO/DENNIS OKEYO.

The battle for supremacy among Athletics Kenya (AK) officials might not end soon following the federation's president's move to dismiss those who want to oust him.

AK President Isaiah Kiplagat said on Saturday that some of the officials fighting him have no place in athletics and must change tact.
"Some of the people fighting me have not organised any athletics event in their regions but they are converging in various places plotting on how to get me out of office, they will not succeed," said Kiplagat during the sixth edition of Ndalat Gaa Kids cross country in Nandi County on Saturday.

Kiplagat, who is facing a rebellion from 11 regions out of 16, referred to those plotting to oust him as young people who 'lack experience' in athletics management.

"Some of you people are fighting me but you lack expertise in athletics management. Some of you were still in your mothers' wombs when I started managing athletics. So you should keep quiet and let us do what we know how to do," said Kiplagat.

On regional chairpersons' meeting in Nairobi on Saturday, Kiplagat said that AK as a federation has been performing very well compared to other sporting federations.

"Some people are saying that Kiplagat should go, where should I go? They don't know what they are talking about, I will not go anywhere," said Kiplagat who was backed by Nandi County Senator Stephen Sang and County Cabinet Secretary for Sports Patrick Sang.

Stephen said: "If you (Kiplagat) will one day want to leave the federation, you must have a good successor to ensure that the office is in safe hands." 

Patrick described Kiplagat as a living legend in athletics and should be left to end his job in peace.