Drama, heated debate at Olympic body polls

By Jonathan Komen

Nairobi, Kenya: Drama and heated debate marked the National Olympic Committee of Kenya polls in Nairobi, Wednesday.

But status quo was maintained as Dr Kipchoge Keino, the NOC-K President, led fellow office bearers in successful defence of key positions at the sports umbrella body.

Former marathon big wigs Paul Tergat and Tegla Loroupe maintained a firm grip on their positions as athletes’ representatives as Catherine Ndereba retained her post as six other National Executives emerged victorious.

Just like the Athletics Kenya polls three weeks ago, the exercise also witnessed last-minute withdrawals – Edna Rotich (athlete representative from the volleyball body), John Obala of Weight lifting, Gordon Oluoch and Football body’s’ Sam Nyamweya.

Peter Nderitu (first vice), David Okeyo (second vice) and John Roberts (Committee) did not defend their slots even as key disciplines like football and athletics went without representation in the national executive.

AK President Isaiah Kiplagat was also among the casualties.

“They did not want to vote for me since they know I am tough and ask a lot of questions,” said Kiplagat.

Kip Keino said he would serve his last term at the helm and will ensure the construction of Olympic headquarters in Nairobi’s Upper Hill area.

Nock longs to complete its 16-storey Sh1.27b Olympic Plaza Nock headquarters.

“It’s my dream to leave National Olympic Committee when the constitution has been reviewed. There are a lot of changes to be made, especially ensuring that Nock constitution conforms to IOC Olympic Charter. We will work together with the team,” Kip Keino said.