NOC elections likely in December says Maxwell
Maxwell de Silva (L) is certain of having NOC elections soon
The long-due election of the National Olympic Committee is likely to be held before the end of this year, said the National Olympic Committee Secretary General Maxwell De Silva.
Speaking to the Sunday Times, De Silva said that they will call for election soon after the completions of elections of six affiliated associations –Judo, Cycling, Table Tennis, Boxing, Hockey and Handball.
NOC held their last elections in 2009 and even though elections were due in 2009, it has been indefinitely postponed citing conflicts between country’s Sports Law and the Constitution of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). NOC consists of 25 affiliated sports bodies.
“There are six sports bodies that have not held their annual elections in 2017. Some of these associations are to get their audited financial statements from the Auditor Generals Department to hold elections while some others have administrative issues of their own. Once these are sorted out, we will go for the election,” said De Silva who is expected run for the same post once again.
Former President of the Rowing Association Rohan Fernando said he will contest the post of president. Fernando submitted his nominations in 2013 when elections were called along with ruling party politician Dilan Perera. However, the elections were called off on an IOC’s directive.
“I have not given up hope of holding the post, nor will I ever give up,” Fernando said. “Whoever comes or not I will contest from Dian Gomes’ group. I am not interested in who is contesting me as I believe I can pass the post with ease.When I become NOC President, I will show what I can do for Sri Lanka sports,” Fernando added. Fernando and Gomes were in two opposing camps but has joined hand this time to fight against a corrupt system.
While Maxwell de Silva eyeing for yet another term, having controversially governed the institution with an iron fist, incumbent President Hemasiri Fernando who has been holding office since 1997 has decided not to contest.
When asked who will contest for the president’s post from his group, he said that several discussions had taken place but as to who will be the president remains a secret. “Once nominations are called the president’s name will be revealed. Our candidate is a well-recognised person locally and internationally,” he concluded.