Stakeholders criticise State for World Youth event setback

2014 London and New York Marathon champion Wilson Kipsang fields questions from journalists at Athletics Kenya's Riadha House on Tuesday, November 24, 2015. [PHOTO: DENNIS OKEYO/STANDARD]

Athletics stakeholders have criticised the Government over the withdrawal of high profile nations from the IAAF World Under-18 Championships scheduled for July 12-16 in Nairobi.

Former Boston Marathon winner and Cherangany MP Wesley Korir pointed fingers squarely at the Ministry of Sports, for failing to give direction as the withdrawal of USA from the competition threatens to incite other countries to follow suit.

 “These withdrawals are a great cause for concern. The Government, through the concerned ministry has not spoken or even given an assurance that everything is well in response to the concerns raised by these countries,” said Korir.

“There is also a huge reason for huge concern regarding the snail-pace preparations for the IAAF World Under-18 Championships.

“The funds meant for the championship were approved long time ago but most members of the committees are yet to be paid,” Korir said.

He added: “The Mwangi Muthee-led Local Organising Committee for this championships has mandate to deliver a world-class event, the onus of security, infrastructural and financial guarantees rests heavily and squarely on the Government of the Republic of Kenya.”

Korir warned that the continued exodus of countries from the event will water down the level of competitiveness in the global event.

The athletics stakeholders want the government through President Uhuru Kenyatta to reassure the rest of the world that Kenya will host a very successful and secure event come July.

This will help avoid further withdrawals and offer a sense of comfort and security.