Ghana Swimming president denies taking bribe
The president of the Ghana Swimming Association, Theophilus Wilson Edzie has denied ever taking money from the father of Olympic sensation Kaya Forson to include her in the swimming team to Rio.
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Mr Edzie in an interview with the Graphic Sports called the accusations baseless and asked that his accuser, Ophelia Swayne apologise unconditionally to the swimming body or risk suspension from the sport.
According to Mr Edzie, Kaya’s qualification was based on merit and not bribery.
“She competed at the FINA World Swimming Championships in Kazan, Russia, Ophelia did not and per the Olympic wild card slots, it is those who competed in major events like the one in Kazan who are eligible to qualify”, Mr Edzie said.
He also contended that Kaya made the best times this year among female swimmers and has continued engaging in more events even after the World Swimming Championships in Kazan.
The swimming capo tasked Miss Swayne to refer to the Olympic rules and charter to better understand and appreciate the rules.
He said one does not necessarily have to reside in his or her home country to qualify for the Olympics.
He stated the assertion that Kaya is not an authentic Ghanaian because she does not reside in the country is also flawed.
Kaya Forson is still battling with accreditation issues and yet to get confirmation of her participation from the Ghana Olympic Committee and the Ghana Swimming Association.
The deadline for entering into the Olympics is July 18.