IBA names Ninvalle Election Observer in latest sign of confidence in Guyanese administrator

May 27, 2026 Sports

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Kaieteur Sports – The International Boxing Association (IBA) has once again demonstrated its confidence in Guyanese boxing administrator Steve Ninvalle, naming him as an official Election Observer for the global governing body’s member federations.

The latest appointment adds another prestigious responsibility to Ninvalle’s growing portfolio within international amateur boxing and further cements his reputation as one of the Caribbean’s most influential sports administrators.

As an IBA Election Observer, Ninvalle will be tasked with ensuring that elections conducted by National Federations strictly adhere to their constitutions, accepted democratic principles, and internationally recognized standards of good governance.

The role also requires him to ensure that no undue influence from third parties impacts the electoral process, while taking all necessary steps to guarantee that elections comply fully with both the IBA Constitution and Membership Policy.

Additionally, observers are required to comply with the IBA’s Disciplinary and Ethics Code, avoid conflicts of interest in keeping with the organization’s Conflict of Interest Policy, and remain present throughout congress proceedings, whether physically or virtually.

Observers must also notify the IBA Head Office of any force majeure circumstances affecting their participation and submit detailed post-event reports in accordance with official Observer Guidelines.

Appointments are made directly by IBA President Umar Kremlev or the organization’s Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer from a designated List of Observers.

Importantly, the appointed observer cannot hold nationality of the country whose federation is conducting the election, nor can the individual have any affiliation with that federation. Selections are made at the discretion of the IBA leadership or upon request from a National Federation or Continental Unit.

For Ninvalle, the latest appointment represents another milestone in more than a decade of trust and recognition from the IBA.

The Guyanese administrator has steadily risen through the ranks of global amateur boxing administration, having previously been appointed Chairman of the Caribbean Steering Committee and before that, earning a place on the AIBA’s (now IBA) influential three-man Executive Bureau. He was also appointed Chairman of the AIBA Youth Commission and in 2014 became the first and only person from Caricom to be elected to the AIBA Executive Committee.

He was also elected as the Vice President of the Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC).

His growing responsibilities at the international level have mirrored his work locally as president of the Guyana Boxing Association, where he has overseen significant growth in participation and development across the country’s amateur boxing landscape.

In an invited comment, Ninvalle said the latest appointment reflects the confidence the IBA leadership has in his ability and contribution to the sport.

“This recent appointment to the Elections Observers list by the IBA says a lot about the trust that the organization, under President Umar Kremlev, has in my leadership and input in boxing,” Ninvalle stated.

The veteran sports administrator noted that the recognition carries special significance for the Caribbean region, which has traditionally had limited representation in influential international sporting roles.

“It means a lot for someone from the Caribbean to be placed in a position like this. It shows that the IBA has been paying attention to the work being done, not only in Guyana, but across the region as well,” Ninvalle explained.

He further emphasized that he views the appointment as a victory not only for himself, but for Caribbean boxing as a whole.

“I accept this appointment not just for myself and Guyana, but for the wider Caribbean. I believe this is recognition for the work that administrators from this region continue to put in to develop boxing at every level,” Ninvalle declared.

Ninvalle’s elevation within the IBA structure continues to place Guyana in an increasingly prominent position within the global amateur boxing community.

Over the years, the Guyanese official has become a familiar figure at international boxing congresses, championships, and administrative meetings, where he has consistently advocated for the development of boxing throughout the Caribbean.

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• election observer, Guyanese administrator, IBA, Steve Ninvalle

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