The Papua New Guinea World Taekwondo Federation (PNGWT) has removed sitting President Sir John Cholai and appointed former Pacific Games gold medalist, Ian Sahoto as Interim President. The decision was made during a Special General Meeting (SGM) held on Sunday, August 24th, 2025, at the Institute of Business Studies University Campus outside Port Moresby. The meeting, summoned by PNGWT Secretary Edward Kassman, followed growing concerns over the federation’s status with both the PNG Olympic Committee (PNGOC) and the World Taekwondo Federation. Kassman cited the former President’s failure to respond to a critical PNGOC deadline on August 14th as the catalyst for action. “The changes were necessary due to the looming possibility of suspension as advised by the PNGOC in their letter dated July 25th.” Additionally, expulsion from the PNGOC would also mean expulsion from the World Taekwondo Federation, a move which could hurt the interests of PNGs taekwondo athletes’ nationwide. Newly appointed Interim President Ian Sahoto, a respected figure in PNG Taekwondo, hails from the East New Britain Taekwondo Club. A medalist at the 1999 Pacific Games in Guam, Sahoto played a pivotal role in PNG’s only team gold medal victory in Taekwondo, alongside fellow champions Nandex and Kassman. At just 41 years old, Sahoto brings a fresh, energetic vision to the Federation as well as hope for new athletes. Moreover, joining Sahoto in the new-look executive team now are: - Jacob Nibil (Eastern Highlands Club) – Male Vice President, replacing Jamuga Stone - Monica Kassman – Treasurer - Colland Kokin (CK Elite Club) – Male Ordinary Member - Sonia Lam – Female Ordinary Member They join existing Female Vice President Margaret Tamasi and Secretary Edward Kassman, forming a complete interim executive committee. In addition, the SGM also addressed strategic planning for the sport’s future. Among the key appointments confirmed for the 2025–2026 period were: - Edward Kassman – Head National Coach - Colland Kokin – Assistant National Coach - Jack Karo – National Tournaments Director -Margaret Augerea – Head Referee - Dr Brendon Korawaro – Medical Officer - Detrosh Dati – GMS Admin Assistant - Reinstatement of Edward Kassman as WT Global Membership System Administrator. The meeting also reviewed PNG’s upcoming participation in the 2025 World Championships in Wuxi, China, and finalized the 2026 calendar of events, as well as selection policies for national athletes. Despite the leadership shift, Kassman expressed gratitude to outgoing President Sir John Cholai for his service. Furthermore, Kassman also thanked the clubs from across the country who participated in the Special General Meeting, reaffirming a united vision for the sport. With two athletes currently training in China and a third preparing to join them, the Federation is focused on ensuring stability, representation, and performance on the global stage.