Sochi: Help stop gay law ‘speculation’

Sochi Olympics organizing chief Dmitry Chernyshenko (in photo) is asking the International Olympic Committee to help “stop this campaign and this speculation” about the anti-gay law recently passed in Russia. Chernyshenko reiterated the law doesn’t prohibit homosexuality in any way and says it “doesn’t contradict any element of the Olympic charter.” He says local organizers are “absolutely confident that there will be no conflicts in that regards.” The law allows authorities to fine, jail and deport foreigners guilty of “propaganda of non-traditional sexual traditions.” IOC President Jacques Rogge said Sunday the IOC “received strong reassurance that this law will not affect the participants” at next year’s Winter Games. – From wire reports