Ex-world champion Kiprop calls for Olympic Integrity amid NOC-K elections impasse

 Former 1,500m champion and three-time world titleholder Asbel Kiprop has called for greater respect for Olympic achievements and a rethinking of leadership at the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K), amid ongoing wrangles that have stalled fresh elections.

Kiprop said the current stalemate is eroding the values that Olympic champions stand for and called for a transition that “honours those with proven Olympic pedigree”.

“It should be a quest for Olympic podium relay, just like the recent IOC elections. Olympic podium is sacred and should have its podium as priority stakeholders,” Kiprop said.

“Many of our Olympic champions take their credentials so lightly. In my view, Kenya should have another Olympic medalist to succeed [Paul] Tergat, whose podium credit succeeded the Olympic champion Kipchoge Keino as NOC-K president.”

Kiprop’s remarks come as NOC-K elections remain on hold following disputes involving four federations — Volleyball, Handball, Triathlon, and Taekwondo — which have failed to resolve representation issues.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC), while monitoring the situation, recently reminded stakeholders that no individual, including the NOC president, holds absolute powers.

“It should be noted that no special rights or privileges are vested in the presidency. The NOC must operate in a democratic and inclusive manner, guided by the Olympic Charter,” read part of an IOC statement.

Athletics Kenya Executive Committee Member Barnaba Korir, who has been instrumental in athlete development and youth programs, echoed Kiprop’s sentiments, urging for a smooth, athlete-focused resolution to the standoff.

“Our Olympic legacy must not be caught up in boardroom politics. The voice of the athlete, especially those who’ve flown the flag on the biggest stages, must remain central in this process,” said Korir.

“The Olympic podium is not just a memory; it’s a legacy that should speak in boardrooms too,” Kiprop concluded.