FIBA statement regarding allegations of systemic sexual harassment within Mali Basketball Federation

FIBA has received since June 10 through the New York Times and Human Rights Watch several allegations about systemic sexual harassment within the Mali Basketball Federation.

Upon receiving such information, FIBA immediately shared its content with the independent Integrity Officer Professor Richard McLaren who has opened an investigation into the matter. The Integrity Officer has confirmed that the report is expected to be delivered soon after the Olympic Games.

The FIBA Secretary General has notified the National Federation of Mali to require their full collaboration with the investigation. The following Malian individuals have been suspended from all FIBA activities while the investigation is conducted: coach Amadou Bamba, coach Oumar Sissoko and official Hario Maiga.

It is alleged that the FIBA President knew or should have known about the sexual abuses in the Mali Basketball Federation particularly during his time at the helm of that Federation from 1999 until 2007. The FIBA President, who strongly denies the allegations, has taken the decision to temporarily step aside while the investigation is conducted. He has also offered his full collaboration to the investigation. In the meantime, as per the FIBA rules, the FIBA First Vice-President Sheik Saud Ali Al-Thani will deputize for him. FIBA stresses the President’s right to the presumption of innocence and will make no further comment pending the outcome of the investigation.

FIBA has zero-tolerance for all forms of harassment and abuse and extends its heartfelt compassion for victims of such conduct. FIBA is committed to ensuring reports of such behavior are taken seriously and properly investigated.