I was set up by my rivals, claims former Athletics Kenya CEO

Former AK CEO Isaac Mwangi [Courtesy]

Just three days after he was cleared of extortion charges by IAAF Ethics Board, former AK CEO Isaac Mwangi claims he was set up by his detractors at Riadha House.

Mwangi was suspended in February 2016 following reports that he demanded a Sh2.4 million from sprinters Joyce Sakari and Francisca Koki, who tested positive for prohibited substances at the 2015 IAAF World Athletics Championships in Beijing, China.

On Thursday, IAAF Ethics Board led by Catherine O’Regan, Kevan Gosper and Annabel Pennefather cleared Mwangi.

"It was alleged the money was to help reduce the four-year bans handed to them after testing positive to banned substances.

“In 2015, my office handled high profile doping scandals and I was in charge. Some people were not happy. The doping scheme includes dishonest athletes, rogue doctors and managers. They managed to force me out," Mwangi said.

“At the same time, I was the CEO of the IAAF World Under-18 and the interest of the event was big and I believe some people were not happy with my appointment and they wanted to do anything possible to get me out. And so was the scenario."

Despite the verdicts, however, the panel noted deep concerns about the evidence and the procedures structures of Athletics Kenya.