The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, has expressed sadness over the recent corruption allegations against the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) made by players based abroad. In an interview with SUNsports, Gavoka, who previously served as chairman of the FRU, discussed the challenges faced by the board and staff at Rugby House.
His comments follow an interview with former Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu, in which Nayacalevu mentioned that players considered boycotting last year’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against England due to unpaid bonuses and claims of corruption within the FRU. Senior players including Semi Radradra, Levani Botia, Meli Derenalagi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Albert Tuisue supported him and called for the removal of interim trustees and staff at the FRU.
Gavoka noted that everyone involved in rugby is honorable and that Rugby administration in Fiji largely relies on volunteers who dedicate significant time without compensation. He expressed disappointment over the players attributing the problems to the administration and board.
“Rugby is an expensive sport, and in Fiji, it is primarily played by the iTaukei community who lack resources,” Gavoka stated, emphasizing the disparity between Fijian players and those in wealthier rugby countries like England and France.
He acknowledged that financial constraints are a persistent issue for the FRU. “The current leaders are honorable people who have contributed significantly to rugby. My two years in leadership came with challenges without any financial reward,” he said.
Gavoka highlighted the high costs associated with international rugby play, advocating for respect for the current management while acknowledging the difficulty in securing sponsorships due to Fiji’s small market size. He noted the ongoing support from Fiji Water and Fiji Airways but reiterated that financial issues are a fundamental challenge for the country.
“The stark reality is that FRU employees often come to work uncertain about their pay. I witnessed this as chairman and felt their struggles,” he added.