A Taekwondo master has urged the National Sports Council to resolve the protracting problem facing the country’s Taekwondo association.

Fernando Abaga Edjang, 7th degree black belt holder in Taekwondo, made the statement on Sunday (18 September) shortly after a Taekwondo programme organised by The Gambia Taekwondo Masters. 

The Gambia Taekwondo Association has been plunged in a long running dispute with Taekwondo masters who accused the body’s executive of flouting the constitution to prolong their stay in office.

“There are ongoing efforts that people are trying, but it’s important to do these efforts in an organised manner to get better results. 

“As I am talking now the Taekwondo Association of The Gambia is facing challenges, but the young ones are very enthusiastic,” Master Edjang said.

“They want to do it, they have the potential but certain things are not there so that these potential will become reality. 

“The way forward is the problem of Gambia Taekwondo Association has yo be sorted out. That’s a top priority. 

“Because you can train and train but the frameworks that you need to go far is not there, that’s why some of the young ones get discouraged and they end up giving up. That problem has to be solved,” he added.

The National Sports Council is aware of the dispute and has since been invited to resolve the matter.

On the council’s intervention, Master Edjang said “The sports council has the mandate, it has the authourity and it should play that role. Because when you have an organisation people are not getting together – you the higher authourity have to make the best decision. 

“So, in my view and technically speaking the matter lies in the hands of the Sports Council to do the job and bring the house in order.”

He commended the masters and student practitioners for keeping the sport going.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba