RNOC boss surprised by Kajuga's doping ban

Rwanda National Olympic and Sports Committee president Robert Bayigamba has revealed that he was shocked when he heard news of Robert Kajuga’s four-year ban for missing a drugs test. Bayigamba said, “I am surprised with what Kajuga did; I usually respected him as an athlete of integrity, we have discussed the issue and it is a big shame for such an outstanding athlete to dodge a drug test.” Kajuga, 31, has been banned by the Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO) from all IAAF-sanctioned competitions, for missing drugs test last May. RADO banned the long distance runner for allegedly failing to take a doping test which was carried out by the Rwanda anti-doping commission ahead of last year’s Kigali International Peace Marathon. However, Kajuga has since pleaded innocence and lodged an appeal. “We are waiting for the outcome of the appeal from RADO but going forward we will see what to do to ensure no such a thing happens with our athletes again,” the former sports minister added. He said, “We will make sure that all of our athletes are tested before we head for RIO 2016 Games to make sure they are clean.” RADO has said that Kajuga’s four-year suspension remains in effect while his appeal in being considered. Meanwhile, the Rwanda National Athletics Federation (RAF) released a statement indicating that the 31-year-old Kajuga, who competed at the 2012 London Olympic Games, will not be considered for the Rio Olympic Games, pending the outcome of his appeal. Established in July 2005 under WADA, RADO is an African Zone V regional anti-doping body established by a group of countries, including Rwanda, to coordinate, manage and implement doping free sport programmes. Member countries pool financial resources and expertise to implement quality anti-doping programmes that comply with the world anti-doping code. There are currently over 15 such organizations across 119 countries worldwide. editorial@newtimes.co.rw