The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the African Olympic body (ANOCA) have officially recognized Anthony Mtaka as the legitimate president of the Tanzania Olympic Committee (TOC) following a contentious leadership dispute.The decision comes after allegations of fraud and vote manipulation during the July 5 elections, which led to a heated standoff among delegates.

IOC Director James Macleod and ANOCA President Mustapha Berraf confirmed their acceptance of the election results, validating Mtaka's victory with 29 of 36 votes cast.This intervention overrides the earlier swearing-in of Leonard Thadeo, who claimed the presidency despite widespread protests.

The dispute erupted when the electoral commission unexpectedly declared Thadeo the winner, contradicting the observed count showing Mtaka with 29 votes, Tandau with seven, and Thadeo with just one.

The IOC and ANOCA condemned the alleged manipulation as fraudulent, violating Olympic Charter principles and a prior agreement to ensure fair elections.

They now demand a thorough investigation into the irregularities and a swift transfer of TOC assets to Mtaka's administration to safeguard Tanzania's athletes' participation in international competitions.