Talk of scandal hits paralympics team ahead of departure to Rio
Just when Kenyans though they had heard the last of the shocking incompetence in the management of the Rio Olympics, claims have emerged of a bloated list of officials who will accompany the Kenya Paralympic team to Rio de Janeiro next month.
The Summer Paralympics Games set to begin from September 7- 18.
According to one list seen by Nairobi News, officials in contingent will contain 12 people. Maina Kamau, the Chef the Mission, tops the list that also has Kenya National Paralympic Committee (KNPC) President Agnes Oluoch, executive officer Caroline Kariuki and chief medical officer, Ben Muthiora.
A KNPC board member who spoke to Nairobi News on condition of anonymity said: “There is a lot of corruption, poor communication and lack of integrity in the committee and we are left wondering how the slots were filled.
“There is a slot for sports council and wrestling and we are left wondering their exact roles in the trip. That aside, more officials from the Ministry of Sports will join the team .We are yet to be told the exact number, “the source said.
In a separate interview, KNPC President Oluoch defended the list, adding that those raising claims of mismanagement are sour-grapes who missed out.
‘’Sports is just like politics and those who are making noise are individuals who missed out.
“We have nine athletes and nine guide runners which brings the number to 18. Beides, there are 12 coaches who will be traveling with the team.
“There are no more than six officials drawn from the KNPC and the Sports Ministry. So, in essence, those traveling will not be more than 36,” Oluoch stated, adding, “had we had a more than usual contingent, the ministry would have objected but they didn’t .Everything has been approved by them.”
She added: “They (paralympians) are not able bodied and need people who will support them. I’ll also have one aid who will assist me because I’m confined on a wheelchair.”
Source-nairobinews.nation.co.ke
Talk of scandal hits paralympics team ahead of departure to Rio
