Historic IOC election: Kirsty Coventry breaks barriers amid disputes
Kirsty Coventry has become the first woman to head the International Olympic Committee, marking a historic moment for the organization. However, her election has sparked controversies about the electoral process and her political career.
- Kirsty Coventry was elected as the IOC president during the 144th Session in Costa Navarino, surpassing six other candidates.
- Controversies arise from her political ties in Zimbabwe and the electoral process, which has faced criticism for lacking transparency.
- The official office transfer is scheduled for June 23, and her term will last eight years.
During the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Kirsty Coventry received 49 votes needed to secure a majority, ensuring her victory in the first round. She was the youngest candidate and the sole woman who vied to succeed Thomas Bach. Her election is seen as progress in an organization that didn't have women members until 1981. The 41-year-old is the youngest to head the IOC and the first from Africa.
The sports community's reactions to Coventry's election have been generally favorable. IOC member Maja Włoszczowska expressed pride in choosing the first woman for this position. A very strong message is sent to the world: women can be leaders," she emphasized. However, there are voices criticizing the electoral process.
Controversies following the election of the IOC chairwoman
Media reports before the 144th IOC Session indicated that the former swimmer had substantial support from the outgoing Bach. The German denied lobbying on her behalf and insisted that the elections were conducted fairly. Notably, most IOC members voting on Thursday were appointed by Bach, who had led the organization since 2013.
Post-election, criticisms emerged about the limited campaign opportunities available to candidates—brief presentations behind closed doors at the IOC headquarters in Lausanne in January were the only official campaign events—and the veiled and restrictive voting process.
However, Coventry's election faced the most criticism due to her political connections in Zimbabwe. In 2008, after winning four Olympic medals in Beijing, including one gold, the then-president of the country, Robert Mugabe, whose rule was marked by brutal repression and economic ruin, dubbed her the "golden girl" and awarded her a $100,000 financial prize. This decision was poorly received globally, as Zimbabwe faced significant food shortages and inflation. The athlete donated part of the money to charity and tried to avoid commenting on political matters.
In 2018, two years after ending her sports career, she accepted a nomination as Minister of Sport from Mugabe's successor, Emmerson Mnangagwa—an equally controversial figure. The current president of Zimbabwe, known as "The Crocodile" for his ruthlessness and political cunning, has been sanctioned for corruption and human rights abuses.
Her ties to Mnangagwa have raised doubts about her suitability to lead an organization like the IOC. In response to these concerns, Coventry stated:
"I don't believe you can really create change if you don't have a seat at the table. It's not been the easiest thing but I have had incredible support and we are making a difference. Having to navigate very sensitive issues has definitely given me extra 'armour' if I can put it that way for what [the IOC] will face in in the future, and we're going to have to navigate difficult leaders that have different opinions on things," as quoted by the BBC.
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