Intisar Shanib, a Libyan member of parliament, has been elected president of Darnes Sports Club, a prominent football club in the eastern city of Derna, after all rival candidates withdrew in her favor.

Mohamed Abdel-Aty, acting president of the club's general assembly, told Reuters that three opposing candidates allowed Shanib to become the sole candidate, citing her strong connections to advance the club.

Shanib described the role as "not easy" but an honor for any Libyan woman. She aims to prove that Libyan women are capable of contributing, especially to the club's fans.

Founded in 1958, the club has undergone several name changes and mergers, regaining its historical name after 2011. Shanib has personal ties to the club, as her brother and uncle previously played for it.

Shanib acknowledged potential criticism, stating that leadership is measured by competence, not gender. She emphasized collective responsibility and plans to focus on rebuilding the club after crises including debt, war, and the devastating Storm Daniel in September 2023.

Shanib joins a growing list of women leading sports clubs globally, including in Saudi Arabia, Uganda, Kenya, Comoros, Italy, and Brazil, highlighting a trend toward female leadership in sports administration.

Source: www.aljazeera.com