The chairwoman of Somalia’s athletics federation, Khadija Aden Dahir, has been suspended following allegations that her niece, Nasra Abubakar Ali, an untrained runner, participated in a 100m sprint event and recorded an embarrassingly slow time. The Ministry of Youth and Sports in Somalia accused Dahir of abusing her power and engaging in nepotism.
During the International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Games held in Chengdu, China, Ali finished the 100m race with a time of nearly 22 seconds. This was over 10 seconds slower than other competitors and drew significant criticism on social media when footage emerged showing her skipping over the finish line.
In response to these allegations, Somali Sports Minister Mohamed Barre Mohamud initiated an investigation into Ali’s selection for the event. He declared that Dahir had engaged in acts of abuse of power and nepotism while tarnishing the nation’s reputation. As a result, he ordered Somalia’s Olympic Committee to suspend Dahir from her position as chairwoman.
Investigations conducted by both the ministry and National Olympic Committee revealed that Ali lacked any sports background or running experience. It was also discovered that there was no registered Somali University Sports Association—a possible indication that documents were falsified to allow Ali’s participation at the Games.
The Ministry expressed its intention to pursue legal action against Dahir and those responsible for falsifying records related to the Somali University Sports Association. A document containing findings from their investigation recommending Dahar’s removal as chairwoman was shared on social media by the ministry.
Suspension of the Chairwoman of the Somali Athletics Federation, Ms. Khadijo Aden Dahir pic.twitter.com/UZsO0A4UiA
— Ministry of Youth and Sports of Somalia (@MoysFGS) August 2, 2023
Critics voiced their disappointment with the government through various channels such as Twitter. They questioned how an untrained individual could be selected to represent Somalia in running events. Some attributed this decision to nepotism within leadership positions.
While these events have caused controversy within Somalia’s athletic community, they serve as a reminder of the importance of fair selection processes and transparency in sports governance. The outcome of the investigations will determine the consequences for those involved and their impact on future sporting endeavours in the country.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports should step down. It’s disheartening to witness such an incompetent government. How could they select an untrained girl to represent Somalia in running? It’s truly shocking and reflects poorly on our country internationally. pic.twitter.com/vMkBUA5JSL
— Elham Garaad ✍︎ (@EGaraad_) August 1, 2023
