Male' Maldives (September 11); Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal announced that they will consult the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to address the issues with the Badminton Association of Maldives (BAM), emphasizing that action is essential for the future of badminton in the Maldives.
On August 15th, Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the National Sports Council (NSC) would oversee BAM until elections are held. Tholal also mentioned that a committee would be formed in consultation with the respective stakeholders to organize the election.
Following this announcement, BAM sought clarification from the Badminton World Federation (BWF) about Tholal's decision.
On August 27th, BAM's lawyer filed a case with the Civil Court challenging the Commissioner’s decision to transfer the association's administration to the NSC. A court hearing was held on September 1st, and the ruling was delivered on September 4th. The court determined that BAM's current executive committee’s term had expired and that they no longer had legal authority to represent the association.
In a press conference held at President Office yesterday, Tholal stated that they are communicating the issues of Badminton Association with BWF with the help of Maldives Olympic Committee.
Detailed information regarding the misconduct of the Badminton Association of Maldives has been provided to the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
Tholal emphasized, "The actions we are taking are crucial to safeguarding the rights of the badminton community, including players, national athletes, officials, and coaches. If we don't address these issues now, there's a risk to the continuity of badminton in the Maldives. We must take decisive action and stand firm to protect the integrity of sports in the Maldives."
He added that the actions being taken are not in disregard of international federations but are based on adhering to Maldives Sports Law and regulations for the benefit of the sports community.
Tholal emphasized that they will continue to consider guidance from international federations and seek assistance on sports matters, all while complying with Maldivian law.
The Commissioner of Sports, Tholal, assured that there will be no political interference in any sports association. They plan to address the issues facing the Badminton Association in a manner similar to the resolution of the Football Association of Maldives case, by seeking assistance from the relevant international federations.
