Omanyala Defends the Government on His VISA Delay Issue
Africa 100 meters champion Ferdinand Omanyala has now asked Kenyans to stop blaming the government for his VISA denial.
Leah Mukangai 
Taking to his Twitter account, the African Champion stated that the government should not be blamed for the visa delay.
"Like I said, there is no one to blame on my visa delay," read part of the statement.
Omanyala also revealed that all the athletes showed up for interviews at the embassy.
"We all as athletes went for VISA interviews to the embassy. After that, I was sent supplementary questions that needed clarification. But on Thursday, a day before my race, my visa was not out," Omanyala stated.
Omanyala further recognized the effort made by the Ministry of sports in Kenya in particular, Sports Cabinet Secretary, Amina Mohammed who played a significant role in ensuring that his VISA was granted.
"It was through government intervention by the Ministry of Sports and Athletics Kenya that I got my VISA. In fact, the ministry of sports through CS Amb. Amina were instrumental in my VISA being granted once the issue was raised," Omanyala added.
Omanyala, who reached the semi-finals of the 100m at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Oregon, was scheduled to leave on Thursday for the "Club" Games, which begin next Thursday in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
African Champion, Ferdinand Omanyala. PHOTO FILE
“My target remains the same...to win gold with 9.7 seconds,“ Omanyala stated.
Omanyala edged out Simbine, the Commonwealth Games 100m champion, in a photo-finish, both running 9.93 seconds in the final on June 9 at the Cote d'Or National Sports Complex.
Omanyala, who appeared tired after arriving late for his races due to a Visa issue, finished third in his heat in 10.10 seconds on July 15 to advance to the semi-finals on July 16, where he finished fifth in 10.14 seconds.
