With the IOC presidential election imminent, JOA President Christopher Samuda calls for a candidate of action and integrity. Seven candidates are vying for the position, and Samuda highlights the need for someone dedicated to advancing global sports, especially in Jamaica. He stresses that character and actionable commitment should guide voters’ decisions in this crucial election.
The Olympic Rings will be prominently showcased at the Eiffel Tower during the Paris Olympic Games in July 2024. As the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential election approaches, Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) President Christopher Samuda emphasizes the necessity for a candidate who is a person of action. He asserts that the optimal leader must engage actively with the JOA and global sports entities.
The IOC presidential election is set to occur during the 144th IOC Session, from March 18 to 21 in Greece, culminating in votes on March 20. Seven candidates have emerged for this influential role, including Prince Feisal Al Hussein, David Lappartient, Johan Eliasch, Juan Antonio Samaranch, Sebastian Coe, Morinari Watanabe, and Kirsty Coventry, the latter seeking to be the first female president.
It is important to note that the JOA lacks voting rights during the election; only individual IOC members are eligible to cast their votes. President Samuda did not disclose a favored candidate but stressed the importance of selecting someone committed to advancing the sports landscape universally, including Jamaica.
“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…,” Samuda outlined, highlighting the need for substantive actions and financial commitments. He identified essential traits that the next IOC president should embody to earn the trust of the JOA.
Samuda elaborated on the qualities that a trustworthy leader must possess: integrity, courage, competence in policymaking, a vision of inclusivity, and a sincere commitment to prioritizing people over personal gain. In making their choice, voters should consider a candidate’s proven character alongside their manifesto commitments.
As candidates campaign for support following the presentation of their manifestos on January 30, Samuda advises JOA members to select the individual who demonstrates the capacity to innovate within the Olympic movement. “Elections will inevitably give rise to manifestos of goodwill… the test should… be who demonstrates character in thought, word, and deed,” stated Samuda, calling for a discerning evaluation of each candidate’s credentials and vision.
The elected president will serve a term of eight years, with the potential for an additional four years, overseeing at least two Summer Olympics, including Los Angeles in 2028, and two Winter Olympics.
In conclusion, as the IOC presidential election approaches, JOA President Christopher Samuda urges the selection of a proactive candidate who demonstrates integrity and commitment to the Olympic movement. He emphasizes the importance of not just electoral promises but actionable support for national Olympic committees and committing to a transformative and inclusive vision for sports worldwide.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
