ISTANBUL: The World Anti-Doping Agency warned Russia not to interfere in drug-testing in the country and asked Wednesday that a year-old vacancy at the top of the national anti-doping body be filled.

WADA president Witold Banka met with Russian Sports Minister Oleg Matytsin in Turkey on Wednesday for talks on the future of the still-suspended Russian anti-doping agency, known as RUSADA.

“The need for RUSADA to retain its independence is critical. There must be no attempt by the Russian state or sporting authorities to interfere with any of its operations,” Banka said in a statement. “Associated with that, the appointment of RUSADAs next director general must follow a rigorous process to ensure the right person is hired for this important position, and that they are able to function independently in the role.”

RUSADA remains suspended because of past doping cover-ups and manipulation of evidence. It hasn’t had a permanent director-general since Yuri Ganus was fired in August 2020 because of financial irregularities. Ganus frequently criticised Russian sports authorities and said evidence against him appeared to have been falsified.

Published in Dawn, September 16th, 2021