Rohan Fernando, former Chairman of the National Olympic Committee’s (NOC) Finance Committee and a veteran sports administrator, recalled a Rio 2016 misconduct that turned out to be a turning point in his bid to become the president in 2018.
As per a report in the Sunday Observer, Fernando along with Dian Gomes, Preeti Perera, Palitha Fernando, Shirantha Peiris, and Nishantha Piyasena unearthed the case, claiming $10,000 withdrawn from the IOC (International Olympic Committee) account was also claimed by the Sri Lankan government.
“This money was supposed to cover airfare and accommodation for the President (Hemasiri Fernando) and Secretary General (Maxwell de Silva). When we initiated a forensic audit, the truth came out. The money was returned, but no accountability was enforced. But the question remains – do you really need further forensics when the facts are so clear?” he asked.
Furthermore, he criticised the IOC’s handling of the allegations as the governing body sent an official, Hider Farman, to investigate the matter when complaints escalated.
“He met only with Maxwell de Silva and his associates while ignoring those of us who filed the complaint. How can you call that an independent investigation?”, Fernando asked.
He lost a controversial election for the NOC presidential post in 2018 but recalls the positive moves made under his leadership. “We implemented proper accounting systems, maintained clean records and ensured transparency.
“I have never personally benefited from the Olympic system. I travelled only when necessary, always at the Committee’s request,” said Fernando.