KARACHI: US presidential candidate Mitt Romney caused a stir when he blundered by questioning whether London is able to host a ‘trouble-free’ Olympic Games.
In a move that astonished British officials and media, he said there were ‘disconcerting’ signs about the preparations for the Games.
Romney said, “There are a few things that were disconcerting, the stories about the private security firm not having enough people, [and] supposed strike of the immigration and customs officials.”
Romney, who managed the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, took great pride in the local support and enthusiasm of volunteers in Salt Lake and suggested it would be important for the British people to do the same.
“Do they come together and celebrate the Olympic moment?” he added, “That’s something which we only find out once the Games actually begin.”
British Prime Minister David Cameron immediately responded to the presumptive Republican nominee’s comment saying, “We are holding an Olympic Games in one of the busiest, most active, bustling cities anywhere in the world. Of course it’s easier if you hold an Olympic Games in the middle of nowhere.”
London Mayor, Boris Johnson also snubbed Romney’s claim. Addressing thousands of people gathered in Hyde Park to see Olympic flame he said, “There’s a guy called Mitt Romney who wants to know if we are ready. Are we ready? Yes we are!”
Cameron on his visit to the Olympic Park claimed the world would be impressed as the Opening Ceremonies are held Friday.
“You’re going to see beyond doubt that Britain can deliver. We’ve delivered this incredible Olympic Park on time, on budget, and in real style,” British Prime Minister said.
Amid the uproar, Romney tried to back off his critique and said, “Of course there will be errors from time-to-time, but those are all overshadowed by ... the athletes. [The Games] are not about the Organizing Committee. And as soon as the sporting events begin, we all forget the organizers and focus on the athletes,” concluding, “I expect the games to be highly successful.”
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