Sports Law Bill Sparks Backlash from Federations: "Our Autonomy is Being Taken Away"

The bill, set to be presented to Parliament, has sparked controversy. Federation presidents speaking to Kıbrıs Postası expressed their discontent over the provision that presidents of federations without at least eight clubs would be appointed by the government.

SAKALLI: "THIS DECISION MUST HAVE BEEN MADE IN A TAVERN"

Ferhat Sakallı, President of the TRNC Athletics Federation, told Kıbrıs Postası that they have long been calling for a new law. "They prepared this draft without sharing it with us, and we are disappointed," said Sakallı, emphasizing that the decision will not contribute to the country's sports. He stressed that merely increasing the number of clubs will not enhance sports in the country. "We sent athletes to the Olympics, but our entire community is saddened by the draft law that would strip us of our autonomy," he said.

SAPSIZOĞLU: "I WISH THEY HAD CONSULTED US"

Hasan Sapsızoğlu, President of the Gymnastics Federation, noted that the draft was prepared without consulting federation presidents or stakeholders. He criticized the "I did it my way" approach and stated, "I wish they had sought our opinions."

Sapsızoğlu emphasized that a law is too important a matter to be left to the discretion of just two or three people. "I hope they reconsider this mistake and engage with all relevant stakeholders to draft a new regulation," he added.

KAYA: "WHAT SUPPORT HAVE YOU GIVEN THESE CLUBS?"

Enver Kaya, President of the Volleyball Federation, argued that instead of solving sports issues in the country, personal interests are prioritized. He highlighted that politicians lack knowledge about the country's sports and stressed the need for facility improvements and athlete support.

"What support have you given these clubs to increase their numbers?" asked Kaya, noting that authorities couldn't even issue administrative permissions for federation presidents. He underscored the need to address the problems in sports, stating, "Decisions should be consistent."

Recalling that federations were established arbitrarily in the past, reducing the number of autonomous federations, Kaya remarked, "Government-appointed individuals took charge of federations, leading to this situation."

Kaya emphasized the need to reorganize the federation formation from scratch and stated that the government should not be prohibitive but regulatory.

GAZIOĞLU: "WE SUPPORT AUTONOMY, NOT APPOINTMENTS"

Hasan Gazioğlu, President of the Tennis Federation, stressed his support for autonomy rather than appointments. He pointed out that the support given to federations is insufficient and emphasized the need for more support for athletes.

Meanwhile, Handball Federation President Ediz Arıkan stated that they would review the decision and make a statement after consulting with the Board of Directors.