A group of girls in Kenya being taught how to row. Kenya Rowing and Canoe federation elected Mohammed Bashora as their new chairman.
Mohammed Butte Bashora was on Monday evening elected unopposed as the new Kenya Rowing and Canoe Federation chairman in Nairobi.
The federation, formerly known as Kenya Rowing and Canoe Association (KRACA) had in January 7th 2015 elected an interim body to run their affairs.
“We need changes with immediate effect. The constitution had to be changed to suit the majority stake holders, not a few individuals. Among the malpractices affecting us are mismanagement of funds and nepotism when it comes to selection of national teams,” Bashora complained to members.
Swaleh Fakii from Kenya Ports Authority pointed out the importance of inclusion to the federation. “We persons with disabilities have been neglected and deemed of little importance in this federation. The national side selection is also biased with players of the same region. The coaches are poorly trained and can’t handle disabled persons,” Fakii said.
Kenya National Sports Council treasurer, Charles Nyaberi presided over the elections that saw the January interim committee being elected unopposed into office.
“I am happy that at least you have made an effort to democracy. Democracy will ensure equality and elimination of corruption,” Nyaberi assured the rowers.
The newly elected team’s first assignment will be the East Africa Rowing and canoe championships. The also pre-qualifications for 2016 Olympics in Rio dejaneiro, will be held in Sudan from 28th march to 2nd April.
According to Bashora, Kenya will not participate in the September 2015 All Africa games in Congo Brazzaville. “They don’t have rowing and canoe facilities, so the games will not have rowing and canoe in general,” Bashora said.
Eight clubs present, out of a possible eleven elected the interim committee to a four year term.
1. Chairman: Mohammed Bashora from Nairobi Ruiru Rowing and Canoe club.
2. 1st vice chairman:SwalehFakii from Kenya Ports Authority.
3. Secretary General: James Mweu from Masinga dam water sports.
4. Assistant secretary general: John OumaGor from Kanyaboli sports.
5. Treasurer: John OdongoRaila from Kisumu club.
6. Assistant Treasurer: Ann Nyambura from Nairobi Ruiru Rowing and Canoe club.
7. Member: Morrison Kivuti from seven forks club.
8. Member: Rose Waruihu from Nairobi Ruiru Rowing and Canoe club.
Author: Shadrack Andenga Odinga