The affiliate associations/federations of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) last evening voted in favour of ratifying its constitution based on the recommendations of its parent body, the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
During the Special General Meeting hosted at Olympic House, the GOA affiliates made a key change to its constitution which now includes in its governance principles to limit the age of executive members to 70 years.
The associations/federation voted 29-13 to implement the age limit capped at three score and 10.
This new rule within its constitution, will directly impact incumbent President K.Juman-Yassin, 76, meaning he will not be able to run for the top post again.
The ratification of the constitution essentially prevents Juman-Yassin who has been at the helm of the GOA for the past 26 years from being reelected. Prior to the voting, the longstanding President made a spirited pitch for those in attendance to oppose the recommendation.
During his speech, he argued that he does not know of any sports organization that has an age limit for its executive members. He further stated that “You can become President of Guyana at any age and putting a cap on the age limit is a disrespect to you and your association.”
Juman-Yassin also alleged that there was political interference prior to the voting process and strongly condemned it.
Following the voting process which was done by secret ballot, Juman-Yassin conceded by stating “I accept the decision made by the associations, I have no quarrel about it.”
The decision by the GOA’s umbrella bodies will now determine in large part the direction sports locally will undertake for next four years and beyond as elections of the GOA is imminent.
