The Commission of Inquiry (COI) has formally requested an extension from Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru to continue their investigation into the tragic death of featherweight boxer Ubayd Haider. COI chairman Edwin Wainiqolo indicated that an additional two weeks would be necessary to conclude their inquiries since South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP) promoter Fred Chand and director Mohammed Shameem have not yet been interviewed.
Originally scheduled to be questioned yesterday, Shameem’s interview was postponed due to a briefing in Suva attended by the investigation team. However, Wainiqolo has confirmed that this interview will take place on Monday via Zoom.
Wainiqolo noted that scheduling conflicts have complicated the investigation, as he is located in the West while his fellow panel members are based in Suva. Additionally, the Commission plans to send a formal notice to Chand’s lawyer, setting a deadline of seven days for a response, or they will proceed without his input.
From Vancouver, Canada, Shameem expressed his readiness to participate in the interview but noted that the COI’s rescheduling has caused delays. He also criticized Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) chairman Adi Narayan for attempting to place blame on SPBP.
Ubayd Haider suffered a collapse after experiencing a technical knockout against Sydney-based boxer Runqi Zhou during an IBO Asia Pacific super featherweight title fight on October 26 at Nadi’s Prince Charles Park. He was subsequently admitted to Zen’s Medical and later transferred to Lautoka’s Aspen Hospital, where he underwent head surgery while in a coma. Sadly, he passed away on November 10.
This investigation is pivotal in seeking justice for Haider’s untimely death and may lead to important changes in boxing regulations to ensure the safety of athletes in the future. The commitment of the COI and the willingness of individuals to provide their accounts is a step towards accountability and improvement in sports oversight.
In summary, the COI’s request for an extension illustrates the complexity of the investigation, while the involvement of key figures shows a collective effort to uncover the facts surrounding this unfortunate incident.
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