Ababu Namwamba in Big Trouble After He Was Accused of Neglect

Ababu Namwamba, the Sports Cabinet Secretary, appeared before the Senate Plenary to address concerns raised by Senators regarding his role.

During the session, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei accused CS Namwamba of neglecting athletes who represented the nation abroad. Senator Cherargei pointed out a significant disparity in travel arrangements.

He alleged that Namwamba frequently traveled in first or business class, while athletes, including world record holder Faith Kipyegon, endured cramped and uncomfortable economy class conditions during their journeys to international events.

Documents were presented, revealing that the cost of economy-class tickets for athletes traveling to Budapest, Hungary, for the recent World Athletics Championships amounted to Sh 850,650.

Senator Cherargei questioned the fairness of such arrangements, where officials enjoyed superior accommodations compared to the athletes.

In response, CS Namwamba explained that budget constraints were the primary reason behind these disparities.

He stated that the Ministry had to consider various factors when sending athletes abroad, emphasizing the importance of ensuring athletes had sufficient time for relaxation, rest, and training before competitions.

He acknowledged that if the budget allowed, the Ministry would consider providing better travel conditions for athletes.

However, the accusation that Namwamba and his Principal Secretary traveled in first or business class while athletes were seated in economy class was not directly addressed during the session.

The Senate Plenary provided a platform for these concerns to be scrutinized and discussed in pursuit of a fair and equitable approach to athlete travel arrangements in the future.