The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, expressed deep disappointment over the recent corruption accusations directed at the Fiji Rugby Union by players based overseas. In an interview with SUNsports, Gavoka, a former chairman of the FRU, discussed the challenges faced by the board and staff at Rugby House.
His comments came in response to an interview given to the Daily Mail by former Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu, who revealed plans for a boycott of the previous year’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against England due to issues of unpaid bonuses and alleged corruption within the FRU. Nayacalevu was supported by prominent players including Semi Radradra, Levani Botia, Meli Derenalagi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Albert Tuisue, who also called for the removal of the interim Trustees and staff at the FRU.
“Everyone involved in rugby is a very honourable person,” Gavoka stated, highlighting that engagement in rugby administration is largely voluntary and requires significant personal investment.
Gavoka expressed sadness over the players’ claims that the administration and board are responsible for the ongoing issues. “Rugby is a very costly sport and, for Fiji, it is mainly played by the iTaukei people, and we lack the necessary resources,” he remarked, acknowledging the ambition to compete with teams like England and France despite financial limitations.
He noted that financial constraints remain a constant challenge for the FRU. “Those currently managing the organization are honorable individuals who have dedicated much to rugby,” he said, recalling his own experience in the role and the difficulties faced without financial compensation.
Gavoka emphasized the high costs associated with international rugby and the need for respect towards those working within the FRU. He remarked on the limited sponsorship opportunities due to Fiji’s small market, although he acknowledged the positive contributions of Fiji Water and Fiji Airways.
He further highlighted the economic challenges faced by the nation, stating, “We are a poor country, we are poor people,” and called attention to the stark realities of workers at the FRU, who often came to work uncertain of their payment. “I was chairman, and I looked at their faces; I used to feel bad,” he added, underlining the difficulties faced behind the scenes.