IOC says elections of Panama Olympic body remove threat of suspension

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

LAUSANNE, Switzerland — The IOC says the democratic election of Panama’s national Olympic committee is an “historic milestone” that removes the threat of suspension.

The International Olympic Committee says Sunday’s election of Camilo Amado as new president of the Panama committee took place in a “democratic and transparent manner” in the presence of IOC observers.

The election follows a process initiated by the IOC to ensure an independent makeup of the national body.

The IOC warned Panama in March that it faced possible suspension for government interference in the affairs of the Olympic body. Two weeks ago, the IOC suspended India for political interference.

The IOC says Sunday’s election is an “historic milestone in the conflict situation which the Olympic movement in Panama has faced for several years.”

The statement says the IOC hopes the result will “pave the way for a bright future for the athletes and for sport in general in Panama.”

13:11ET 17-12-12