Kirsty Coventry, Africa’s most decorated Olympian, may make history as the first woman to head the International Olympic Committee (IOC) after her name was shortlisted for the position. However, her bid is clouded by controversy surrounding her ties to Zimbabwe’s brutal regime.
Coventry, who ran on a platform of “zero tolerance” for corruption and unethical behavior, has been a highly influential figure in Zimbabwe’s politics since becoming sports minister in 2018. Critics argue that her appointment was a strategic move to improve Mnangagwa’s image and win back young urban voters.
Despite widespread criticism, Mnangagwa has repeatedly defended Coventry, with some even praising her handling of sports issues. However, many have accused her of failing to significantly improve and expand deteriorating sports infrastructure, leading to the decline of professional football and boxing in Zimbabwe.
Coventry’s own conduct as a politician has also been questioned, particularly after she was embroiled in a scandal over receiving a prized piece of farmland that Mugabe expropriated. Critics have called her “the worst sports minister ever,” highlighting concerns about her ability to uphold the IOC’s doctrine of political neutrality.
As a candidate for the IOC presidency, Coventry has emphasized the importance of adhering to high ethical standards. However, given her own conduct and ties to Zimbabwe’s repressive regime, many question whether she is fit to lead the Olympics.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/kirsty-coventry-soft-face-zimbabwes-dictatorshipcould-next-president-ioc-opinion-2047303