Bayigamba ponders unseating Beraho

Former Sports Minister Robert Bayigamba has expressed his desire to contest for Rwanda National Olympic Committee (RNOC) presidency. Bayigamba, who is the Rwanda volleyball federation president and Private Sector Federation (PSF) boss told Times Sport that he has not yet fully made up his mind to aspire for the seat but wanted to first solicit support from the his federation before putting up his name to replace outgoing Ignace Beraho, who has served the mandatory two, four-year terms. “We had decided to send one of our federation officials for the Rnoc Secretary General post, but things are still in the early stages. “Personally, I would love to go for the top seat (presidency) but a decision on that must have to be reached upon by our general assembly,” revealed Bayigamba, adding he would first consult and solicit for backing before contesting for the hot seat. No specific date has been set for the Rnoc elections, but sources close to the committee’s top leadership have hinted that the exercise could be held mid this year. Initially, the elections had been scheduled for March but could not be possible due to the fact that almost all local sports federation have yet to legalize their existence. They had until January 1 to have attained legal status. That deadline set by Sports Minister Joseph Habineza last November has already past. Outgoing Rnoc boss, Beraho has confirmed that he’s not to seeking an unprecedented third term in office after eight difficult years at the helm. Though the controversial veteran administrator is not standing for reelection, he has vowed to protect the Olympic values and continue to represent Rwanda in the Olympic family. “I have tried my best in the last eight years to produce an Olympic medal and though I have not been able to achieve my dream, it’s not the end, the future is still bright for me.” Beraho was quoted saying late last year. Beraho has embarked on coaching national athletes to realise his dream of producing an Olympic medal at the 2012 London Games. Some of the athletes under his guidance include Sylvain Rukundo and marathon runner Epiphanie Nyirabarame. Ends

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Bayigamba ponders unseating Beraho