In a major leadership transition, Commonwealth Sport President Chris Jenkins has officially stepped down, paving the way for Ugandan sports administrator Dr. Donald Rukare to assume the role of Interim President.
Jenkins, known for his passionate advocacy of Sport for Development and para-athlete inclusion through the GAPS programme, resigned on Monday, April 14, 2025, after years of service to the Commonwealth Sport movement. His resignation was announced in an official statement released by Commonwealth Sport and shared with the Ghana News Agency.
Reflecting on his tenure, Jenkins stated: “I am particularly proud of the opportunities I have been given to advance Sport for Development – and especially Para inclusion through our GAPS programme – and want to thank all my Commonwealth Games Association colleagues and friends for their support.”
According to Commonwealth Sport CEO Katie Sadleir, the organisation’s constitution allows the Executive Board to appoint an interim leader in the event of a mid-term resignation. The full membership will elect a new President during the next General Assembly scheduled for November 2025.
Dr. Donald Rukare, a respected legal and sports governance expert, was swiftly appointed by the Board to steer the movement through this transitional period.
“I am ready to step into this role and thank the Board for their confidence in me,” said Dr. Rukare. “We have come through a particularly challenging period in our Games history, and we are now building momentum towards an outstanding Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026.”
Sadleir added that the organisation remains focused on strengthening its event operations and long-term vision. “We look forward to welcoming a new President in November to lead us through our upcoming period of growth and continued transformation.”
The shake-up comes at a crucial time as preparations intensify for the 2026 Games, and the Commonwealth Sport movement aims to reinforce its relevance, inclusivity, and global impact.
