In a landmark decision, the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Executive Board has unanimously approved the recommendations of the OCA Ethics Committee, temporarily suspending National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka (NOCSL) Secretary General Maxwell De Silva from all OCA-related activities. The decision, made during the OCA Executive Board meeting on January 14, 2025, outlines a series of critical actions aimed at addressing the allegations against De Silva. Below are the key points of the decision:
- Temporary Suspension
Maxwell De Silva has been temporarily suspended for 90 days under the OCA Ethics Code. This suspension bars him from participating in any OCA events or activities until investigations are completed. - Revocation of Accreditation
De Silva’s accreditation has been officially withdrawn, barring him from attending the upcoming Harbin Asian Winter Games. - Extended Suspension
The OCA Executive Board has extended De Silva’s suspension from all OCA events and activities until investigations by competent Sri Lankan authorities are concluded. - Review of NOCSL Ethics Committee’s Decision
The OCA has directed the NOCSL Executive Board to review and consider the NOCSL Ethics Committee’s earlier decision, which recommended De Silva’s suspension. - Stepping Aside from NOCSL Affairs
De Silva has been ordered to step aside from all NOCSL affairs until the ongoing investigations are completed. - Election Participation Ban
The OCA has stated it will not recognize any NOCSL elections involving Maxwell De Silva. This decision is praised as a strategic move to block the hastily scheduled AGM and election planned for March 2025, orchestrated by De Silva and his allies. Their objective, as outlined in a letter to the Presidents of the IOC and OCA, includes overturning the Ethics Committee ruling and installing a president of their choice. The proposed roadmap seeks to achieve De Silva’s exoneration while blatantly disregarding established protocols. - Support for Sri Lankan Athletes
The OCA confirmed it will continue working with NOCSL President Suresh Subramaniam to ensure Sri Lankan athletes are prepared for future Asian Games and other international competitions. - Notification of Decision
The OCA’s decision will be communicated to De Silva, the NOCSL Executive Board, and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
This decisive move by the OCA comes in the wake of mounting allegations of financial misconduct and other irregularities against De Silva. It underscores the organization’s commitment to upholding integrity and transparency within its member associations.
With investigations now in full swing, all eyes are on the NOCSL as it grapples with its most significant crisis in recent history. The outcome of this investigation will likely have far-reaching implications for Sri Lanka’s sports governance and its international standing.
This move by the OCA aligns with the recent landmark decision by Sri Lanka’s Minister of Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage, who suspended the NOCSL Secretary General last week. The Minister’s bold action has been widely praised and endorsed by the Sri Lankan media, the public, and numerous sporting icons.
