The Commission of Inquiry (C.O.I) is currently facing significant challenges as it investigates the death of featherweight boxer Ubayd Haider. This was announced by C.O.I chairman Edwin Wainiqolo during a press conference held at the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Nadi. The situation grew more complicated when South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP) director Mohammed Shameem and Fred Chand enlisted legal representation.
Chairman Wainiqolo explained that the commission is now working through legal counsel for the promoter to facilitate interviews. He acknowledged the unexpected difficulties encountered during the process, which include the engagement of legal representatives by those involved, a right they are entitled to. Furthermore, Wainiqolo mentioned that negotiations are ongoing to arrange a suitable time for the promoters to be interviewed.
From Vancouver, Shameem expressed his willingness to cooperate with the COI but insisted that any interviews should happen in the presence of their legal counsel. He clarified, “I’ve got nothing to hide” and criticized the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) chairman Adi Narayan for being overly accusatory.
Chand, speaking from Sydney, echoed this sentiment, stating they are committed to transparency and maintaining that they contribute positively to the sport through numerous promotions, despite experiencing some financial losses.
Additionally, Wainiqolo highlighted challenges involving the International Boxing Organisation (IBO), which sanctioned the fight in question. An IBO official informed that inquiries about Haider’s case would have to be directed to their headquarters.
Wainiqolo set a timeline for the investigation, extending the deadline for full reports and interviews by about a week, with a new deadline of 30 days in total. He stressed the need to gather comprehensive testimonies from various individuals involved in the boxing events leading up to Haider’s death.
Investigation efforts are continuing, and stakeholders are being urged to comply to ensure a thorough understanding of the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
In a positive light, this situation may lead to greater safety regulations and oversight in the boxing industry. Increased scrutiny can foster improvements, making bouts safer for athletes and setting a more robust standard for promotions in the future.
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