Four leading netball associations in Fiji are urging Netball Fiji to revise the voting rights for the executive committee’s elected members as part of amendments they hope to present at today’s Annual General Meeting. The current structure includes the president, three vice presidents, a secretary, treasurer, and five committee members—all of whom hold voting rights, along with accredited delegates and life members.
The existing constitutional clause, Article JOd, states that associations which fail to meet annual subscription and member levies at least 14 days prior to the AGM will lose their voting and speaking rights. Members are required to pay a levy of $10 per registered individual, covering both players and non-players including coaches and managers, while major associations owe a membership fee of $100, and minor associations $50, with fees waived for life members.
Nadi Netball Association’s vice president, Isikeli Leweni, expressed frustration at the voting arrangements, claiming that the executive committee’s members frequently outnumber those eligible to vote from the associations, which results in a systematic bias against proposed changes like potential constitutional amendments.
Leweni also raised concerns about the declining membership within Netball Fiji and noted that many potential players are transitioning to rugby, further complicating the issue for local netball associations. He pointed to the inadequate selection processes for the Fiji Pearls national team as a factor discouraging players, many of whom leave to pursue rugby opportunities.
Emphasizing the gatherings at the AGM, Nadroga president Avinesh Kumar shared similar views, asserting that voting from the executive committee should not occur, suggesting that decision-making should rest with the association members to ensure democracy within Netball Fiji.
Mere Rauluni, the president of Nasinu Netball, indicated they plan to raise concerns regarding the annual levy fees, asserting that they are all unified in seeking amendments to the executive committee’s voting rights.
The overall sentiment among the association presidents reflects a growing desire for reform within Netball Fiji, signaling a critical moment at the AGM that could reshape the leadership dynamics of the sport in the country.
In light of these discussions, stakeholders are hopeful that constructive dialogues at the AGM can lead to meaningful changes, reinforcing local governance and rejuvenating Fiji’s netball community. With a renewed focus on grassroots involvement and fair representation, the future of netball in Fiji could become more inclusive and vibrant.
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