Running sensation ‘Mamoroallo Tjoka has failed to fly with the Lesotho team to Melbourne amidst conflicting statements by her representative and the Lesotho Amateur Athletics Association. 

LAAA president Justice Maketela accused Tjoka's personal coach Aaron Mohloli of demanding special treatment for his charge. Mohloli demanded that Tjoka be given boosters, running attire and other incentives before they have been distributed to the other athletes.

Even after assurances that all athletes would get the necessary equipment in time, Mohloli insisted she would not move until assured of her demands.

Maketela said arrangements were being made for Tjoka, and Moleboheng Mafata who has also been unable to leave as a result of air ticket problems, to join the team early next week. If Tjoka did not go to Melbourne, the national association will take disciplinary measures against her including withdrawing of her permit to run anywhere in the world, he said.

Mohloli threatened that his athlete will not go to Melbourne, because she has never been given any assistance in preparing for the Commonwealth Games. A few weeks ago a South African daily newspaper carried a story that claimed Tjoka had announced she would no longer represent the country because she never got any support from the country.

The Games are to be held from March 15 to 26.

07 March 2006