Two Kenyan athletes, Agness Jeruto Barsosio and Rodgers Kwemoi, have been placed under provisional suspension by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), an independent body tasked with upholding the integrity of athletics.

The suspensions stem from suspicions of doping. Barsosio and Kwemoi are both subject to provisional suspension due to the alleged use of prohibited substances or methods. Kwemoi has been formally charged, while Jeruto’s case has been referred to the Dispute Tribunal.

Kenyan athletes suspensions

In accordance with AIU protocols, Barsosio has received a provisional suspension for her involvement with a Prohibited Substance/Method, specifically an ABP case.

“The AIU has provisionally suspended Agness Jeruto Barsosio (Kenya) for the use of a Prohibited Substance/Method – ABP case,” read a statement on Jeruto.

Kwemoi has also been provisionally suspended by the AIU due to the use of a Prohibited Substance/Method, similarly categorized as an ABP case.

“The AIU has provisionally suspended Rodgers Kwemoi (Kenya) for the use of a Prohibited Substance/Method – ABP case,” a statement on Kwemoi revealed.

Provisional suspensions are a necessary measure when an adverse analytical finding for a non-specified substance on the Prohibited List is detected. Such suspensions can also be implemented based on the unique circumstances of each doping case.

It is important to underline that a Provisional Suspension does not indicate guilt or supersede the presumption of innocence. Instead, it serves as a precautionary measure to uphold the integrity of the sport while investigations are underway.

About the two Kenyan Athlete

Barsosio is a Kenyan marathon runner born in 1983. She represents Kenya at the international level and has achieved notable victories in various competitions, including setting course records.

Kwemoi, on the other hand, is aged 26 and holds a Commonwealth Games bronze medal from 2018 in the 10,000m category. He is also the 2016 World U20 10,000m Champion. Kwemoi has been issued a formal notice of charge.

These athletes now join the ranks of others who have faced suspension or ongoing investigations due to doping allegations. Charles Kamau is another recently suspended athlete, while Titus Ekiru is currently under scrutiny in a separate doping inquiry that could result in a substantial ban.