Two members of the Commission of Inquiry investigating the death of featherweight boxer Ubayed Haider, previously known as Nathan Singh, have resigned from their roles. The members, former Republic of Fiji Military Forces Land Force Commander Pita Driti and the Boxing Commission of Fiji chairman Adi Narayan, stepped down for personal reasons related to potential conflicts of interest.
Jese Saukuru, the Minister of Youth and Sports, confirmed the resignations and mentioned that the inquiry team is in the process of finalizing a replacement for the third member of the commission. Narayan expressed his commitment to ensuring the investigation remains transparent and independent, adding that he excused himself to avoid any bias as the Boxing Commission’s chairman. Driti noted that he also stepped down due to perceived conflicts.
The inquiry is scheduled to conduct interviews this Friday, with Philip Eneriko, the Director for Youth and Sports, and Edwin Wainiqolo, a lawyer from Lautoka, involved in the investigation. Narayan confirmed that Wainiqolo will lead the inquiry team, although he refrained from providing further comments on the investigation’s progress.
Haider tragically passed away following a collapse after his match for the IBO Asia Pacific featherweight title on October 26. He was hospitalized at Lautoka and underwent emergency head surgery but succumbed to his injuries on November 10, resulting in widespread mourning in the boxing community.
In a more positive update, Narayan noted that boxing promotions will continue as planned, with several promoters renewing their licenses for the upcoming year. Bluewater Boxing Promotions is set to kick off their schedule, with details expected to be announced in December.
This ongoing inquiry reflects the commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in the sports community, and efforts to continue boxing promotions demonstrate resilience and dedication to the sport despite recent tragedies.
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