President of the Solomon Islands National Paralympics Committee (SINPC) and Chef de Mission for Team Solomon at the recent Paris Paralympics, Nihal Seneviratne, has come under heavy criticism for alleged misconduct during the event.
According to reports, Seneviratne, who was allegedly intoxicated, used abusive language and displayed aggressive behaviour towards Team Solomon athletes at their camp on the night before their departure from Paris.
Solomon Jagiri, a para-athlete who represented Solomon Islands in taekwondo, confirmed the incident during an online interview with Star Sports.
Jagiri said they were asleep when Seneviratne returned to camp and began shouting, using expletives, and banging on doors and walls.
“I was sleeping when I heard Nihal shouting and hitting the doors and walls. I approached him to ask what was wrong, and he responded by challenging me to a fight. When I refused, he slapped me twice. On the third attempt, I blocked his hand and punched him in the chest, causing him to fall. He then went to his room,” Jagiri recounted.
Para Taekwondo head coach Lilly Lofana corroborated Jagiri’s story, explaining that the incident occurred during the Paralympics closing ceremony.
Lofana stated that while most of the team was at the ceremony, Jagiri, along with athletes Cosmol and Junita, had stayed behind at the camp due to their frustration over unmet promises regarding allowances.
“Nihal wasn’t part of the closing ceremony. He returned after consuming alcohol and verbally abused the athletes,” Lofana said.
She added that Seneviratne had promised to deliver the athletes’ allowances upon their arrival in Paris but later claimed the funds had been spent on airfare.
“For the entire three weeks in Paris, the athletes repeatedly requested their promised allowances. When I approached Nihal, he said the money was used for airfares. I believe that’s why he was upset,” Lofana explained.
“However, his behaviour is unacceptable for someone in his position. As Chef de Mission and SINPC President, he should be leading with respect.”
A local Para coach, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed disappointment over Seneviratne’s actions, calling for him to step down.
“These athletes work hard to represent our country. They deserve support, not disrespect. Nihal should resign. We need a leader with passion for para-athletes, not someone who shows such poor behaviour.”
The Team Solomon delegation returned safely to Honiara on Wednesday, except for Jagiri and Maefolia, who were delayed in Brisbane due to check-in issues. They are expected to arrive in Honiara over the weekend.
By Floyd Terry Jnr
Solomon Star, Honiara
