OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Having thoroughly examined the circumstances that led to the recent comments of 400m Olympic Champion, Shaunae Miller Uibo of the Bahamas, on the recent ruling of the Athletes Integrity Unit (AIU) of the international governing body of the sport of athletics on the exoneration of athlete, Salwa Eid Naser, the NACAC Athletes Commission wishes to state its support for our athlete.
We are mindful that in the case of Salwa Eid Naser, the terms of the delays in the charges being brought sometimes happens because the Anti-Doping Organizations with results management responsibility need to be thorough in their investigations before alleging the commission of an Anti-Doping Rule Violation, nevertheless our Athletes Commission nonetheless feels that many of the concerns raised by Mrs. Uibo are valid and require the urgent attention of World Athletics if it is to sustain the confidence of athletes in the system and ultimately, in the sport.
Athletes are required and are held accountable for their actions and rightfully so, however, many are convinced that the process is inconsistent. The process is not at all uniform across the globe to such an extent that many are of the view that some athletes will always get the benefit of the doubt given the perceived inconsistencies.
There has to be greater accountability on the part of athletes regarding whereabouts filings but we also believe that the process applied in dealing with whereabouts failures could be more explicitly outlined. Rather than having the option to provide explanatory notes, this should be a requirement. Inconsistency in the application of rules, regulations and laws, is one of the most frustrating things for athletes.
Of some concern is the matter of the options available to athletes who are aggrieved with the operations and/or decisions of the Athletes Integrity Unit. To who can the athletes turn in such instances?
We, therefore, understand Shaunae’s advocacy as we do her right to speak out on matters deemed pertinent to the cause of all athletes. Regular dialogue is critical in this process. We insist that we are all accountable regardless of where we are located in the sport’s global structure.
NACAC Athletes Commission