Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness Abdulla Rafiu stated yesterday that the current government has conducted many efforts with the relevant administrations in solving corruption cases related to sports, and that there have been many achievements as well.
He said this during the publishing ceremony for the Anti-Corruption Commission's (ACC) "Research Report on Identifying Corruption Risks in the Governance and Management System of Sports".
ACC President Shamil Adam, commission leadership and staff from the ministry attended the ceremony, where Minister Rafiu said that the auditing system as to how state funds are being used by sports associations and clubs have been closely looked at and strengthened.
"A set of guidelines and strong financial regulations have been introduced in order to keep financial transactions transparent, and have been put into force," said the minister.
According to Rafiu, government influence toward sports association elections have been brought to an end. He also highlighted that the regulations meant for associations and players have been strengthened.
"The salaries of sports players and officials given by the government have been increased and are being given equally. The regulation surrounding prize money from winning international tournaments has also been revised," said Rafiu.
He went on to say that cases where administrative operations have been disrupted at associations have been looked into and solved. He also said that changes have been brought about to the fundamental guidelines of the associations as per regulations from international administrations and Maldives' Sports Act.
Points of progress highlighted by Minister Rafiu:
- National team athletes and officials now have health insurance.
- Minimum medical requirements regarding national and international tournaments are being observed.
- Gender equality in sports has been legally introduced.
- The World Anti-Doping Code is being observed.
As per Minister Rafiu, the ACC and relevant administrations are currently conducting special efforts in stopping corruption and acts of bad sportsmanship. This includes the launch of the ACC's "Promoting Anti-Corruption, Honesty, and Accountability in Sports (PACHAS)" campaign in order to promote integrity in sports.
"The publishing of the Research Report on Identifying Corruption Risks in the Governance and Management System of Sports is the most important step that has been taken with the ACC," said Rafiu.
The minister stated that forming guidelines to strengthen sports management and acting on them will not be enough. He said that raising awareness against corruption among those in charge of managing sports administrations, coaches and athletes is vital. And so, the minister said that a series of special training programs have begun to improve governance and to teach financial management.
"This effort is being spearheaded by the Commissioner of Sports, with associations cooperating as well," said the minister.
Minister Raifu said that the government's aim is to create a clear, transparent and trustworthy sports environment for the youth.
"The government is determined to conduct this effort for the right of sports in Maldives without any delay," said Minister Rafiu.
