Christopher Samuda, President of the Jamaica Olympic Association, calls for an IOC presidential candidate who demonstrates a commitment to action and development in sports. With the election looming, he urges focus on integrity and true leadership qualities rather than superficial manifestos. The new president will play a critical role in shaping the Olympic movement and overseeing future Olympic events.
As the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential election approaches in just 16 days, Christopher Samuda, President of the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA), emphasizes the need for a candidate who is genuinely committed to the JOA and global sports organizations. The IOC will conduct its 144th Session from March 18 to 21 in Greece, with elections held on March 20 to appoint a successor to Thomas Bach. Seven candidates are in contention, including notable figures like Kirsty Coventry, who aims to be the first woman president.
The JOA, lacking voting rights in the election, recognizes that individual IOC members are the only ones eligible to vote. Although Samuda has not disclosed his preferred candidate, he underscores their vital role in enhancing Jamaica’s sporting landscape. He stated, “A future president needs not only to commit to supporting the JOA, but all national Olympic committees across the spectrum as they pursue capacity-building initiatives, transformational governance, and institutional-strengthening programmes.”
Samuda articulates that the elected candidate must possess a range of positive characteristics to gain the JOA’s trust. He pointedly remarks that a successful leader should embody integrity and competence in strategic governance, maintain an inclusive vision, and prioritize the needs of others over personal gains. He declared, “…she or he who combines integrity and valour of leadership with genes of competence in policymaking…will earn trust.”
After presenting manifestos during a prior session, all candidates have been actively campaigning to secure votes from IOC members. Samuda calls for a vote based on the capacity to revolutionize the Olympic movement. He believes the selection process should go beyond superficial appeals, noting, “The test should not be she or he who gives the best messianic manifesto…but who demonstrates character in thought, word, and deed.”
The new IOC president will serve a term of eight years, with an option for an additional four, overseeing significant events like the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics and other crucial competitions.
In summary, Christopher Samuda advocates for a new IOC president who will not only focus on words but commit to action, fostering the development of sports both in Jamaica and globally. The emphasis is on integrity, inclusiveness, and a responsible approach to leadership as candidates campaign for the influential position.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
