Wilson returns as Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation President

Franklin Wilson has been returned unopposed as President of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF), reclaiming the leadership role less than a year after stepping aside.

At a well-attended Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Racket Centre on Thursday, Wilson was handed a clear mandate by over 30 registered members to lead the federation through a pivotal rebuilding phase.

Wilson’s return comes at a sensitive time for the federation. In his first remarks since being re-elected, the President was candid about the challenges ahead, acknowledging that the sport’s public image had suffered “major setbacks” recently.

“Our athletes must come first,” Wilson emphasised. “The restoration of this federation’s image is an immediate priority. Every decision and programme we implement will be centred on athlete development and welfare.”

The new executive body is notable for its gender diversity, with three women elected to key positions. Kiana Benjamin returns as Treasurer, while Lisa Oudit and Nedisha Tinnis join as Committee Members, bringing fresh perspectives to the boardroom.

The 2026 GAPLF Executive: President: Franklin Wilson, Vice President: Gordon Spencer, General Secretary: Roger Rogers, Treasurer: Kiana Benjamin, PRO/Organising Secretary: Denroy Livan, Committee Members: Bjorn Williams, Lisa Oudit, Nedisha Tinnis

Wilson’s vision for the next term extends beyond the capital. He outlined plans to take powerlifting into schools and remote communities to foster a new generation of talent.

The President also highlighted the critical need for a dedicated high-performance centre.

He commended the Government and the National Sports Commission for their support, noting that such a facility is the “much-needed pillar” required for Guyana to host regional and international championships.

With a renewed leadership team and the backing of corporate Guyana, the GAPLF now turns its focus to the platform, aiming to transform recent administrative turbulence into a period of sustained athletic excellence.