Tergat hands over olympic body to Maluki, hails institutional growth
By William Muthama, July 21, 2025Two-time Olympic silver medalist Paul Tergat has officially handed over the reins of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) to his successor Shadrack Maluki, marking the end of his eight-year tenure at the helm of the country’s Olympic body.
Speaking after the elective congress held in Nairobi on Monday, July 21, 2025, Tergat expressed pride in the progress the institution has made under his leadership, describing the transition as a milestone in restoring credibility and efficiency within NOC-K.
“It’s been a pleasure. I am very proud of what we have achieved. NOC-K is now at a different level, and we are handing over an institution that is not in the state we found it. It is very solid now,” said Tergat.
Reforms and Relief
His administration leaves behind a restructured and more transparent Olympic body after a turbulent period marked by delays and legal battles over the election process.
Two earlier attempts to hold the polls had failed, prompting pressure from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Parliament, and local athletes to resolve the impasse.
Tergat admitted he felt relieved after the successful elections and confident that the new leadership, led by former judoka Maluki, would carry the institution forward.
“The process is finally over, and it’s time to focus on programs for our athletes and sportsmen,” he said. “I am happy to hand over to a man that is going to deliver also. He is capable and has been in the sport for many years.”
Tergat served two full terms as NOC-K President, taking over the committee when it was embroiled in credibility issues and governance challenges. His legacy includes structural reforms, improved transparency, and renewed focus on athlete welfare.
New Leadership Mandate
Maluki now takes over as the new NOC-K President amid expectations to sustain the momentum and further strengthen Kenya’s Olympic performance and institutional frameworks.
Shadrack, who previously served as NOC-K’s 1st Vice President and is also the President of the Judo Federation, won the presidency after polling 15 votes against former Secretary General Francis Mutuku, who garnered 12 votes.
Meanwhile, Barnaba Korir was elected as the new 1st Vice President, also with 15 votes, defeating Boxing Federation of Kenya President Anthony Ombok, who received 12 votes.