Thursday August 3, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - The Somali Olympic Committee has suspended Khadija Aden Dahir, Chairperson of the Somali Athletics Federation, following allegations of abuse of power and favouritism in the selection process of an underprepared athlete representing Somalia at the FISU World University Games in Chengdu, China.
The Ministry of Sports and Youth directed the Olympic Committee to suspend Dahir just hours after pledging to investigate the selection process that led to the participation of Nasra Abukar at the FISU games.
Abukar, a 20-year-old athlete with no competitive running experience, faced harsh criticism after finishing last in the 100-meter race, drawing significant attention and backlash from Somalis worldwide.
The controversy revolved around the selection of Abukar, and the committee emphasized that the scandal arising from the games in China was unacceptable.
On Tuesday, Sports Minister Mohamed Barre pledged to hold those responsible for what he termed as the "misrepresentation and embarrassment" of the country. The controversy intensified amid allegations of favouritism involving Abukar's potential familial connection to Khadija Aden Dahir, the Chairperson of the Somali Athletics Federation.
Social media users in Somalia pointed to a congratulatory message posted by Dahir on her personal Facebook page, celebrating Abukar's graduation, hinting at a possible connection between the two.
Dahir defended Abukar's selection during a send-off ceremony in Mogadishu, insisting on her diligent training and the development of substantial running skills.
From the starting gun, it was apparent that Abukar was struggling. While her competitors surged ahead, she lagged, visibly straining to maintain a competitive pace and crossed the finish line long after the others.