Boxing Community on Edge: Is Justice for Ubaid Haider Being Overlooked?

Local professional boxer Sebastian Singh has expressed serious concerns regarding the integrity of the Board of Inquiry’s investigation into his brother, Ubaid Haider’s death. Singh claims that the inquiry’s process may be incomplete following a parliamentary statement by Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, who announced that the investigation had concluded.

Singh pointed out that a crucial component appears to be missing, as credible sources have indicated that Freddy Chand, the promoter of the South Pacific Boxing Promotion, has not yet been interviewed. He argues that focusing solely on the absence of an onsite ambulance, which the minister cited as the primary cause of death, may result in an incomplete understanding of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

In his remarks, Singh cited information from an insider involved in the inquiry, who suggested that a preliminary report had been shared, yet the investigation was not fully concluded. “How do you give a final report without investigations being completed?” Singh questioned, emphasizing that justice for his brother has not yet been served and that he will pursue this matter diligently.

Parliamentary discussions revealed that while protocols were followed during the boxing event, the lack of an onsite ambulance has raised broader concerns about safety regulations within the sport. This echoes the sentiment from previous coverage on the inquiry, highlighting the broader need for comprehensive safety measures in boxing events.

Boasting support for the inquiry’s findings, BOI chairman Edwin Wainiqolo has publicly acknowledged that Chand’s absence from interviews represents a significant gap. The inquiry aims for transparency and accountability, and stakeholders hope it will lead to more stringent safety measures to protect athletes in the future.

The ongoing investigation poses an opportunity for the boxing community in Fiji to address critical concerns about athlete safety and ensure that such tragic events do not recur. As dialogues continue, both Singh and other advocates for change remain hopeful that the inquiry will stimulate positive reforms and foster a safer environment for boxing participants.