The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, expressed sadness over recent corruption allegations against the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) made by overseas-based players. Speaking to SUNsports, Gavoka, who is a former chairman of FRU, highlighted the challenges faced by the board of directors and staff at Rugby House.
His comments came in response to an interview with former Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu, who discussed plans to boycott last year’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against England, citing unpaid bonuses and corruption within the FRU. Nayacalevu’s sentiments were echoed by senior players including Semi Radradra, Levani Botia, Meli Derenalagi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Albert Tuisue, who called for the removal of the interim trustees and staff at FRU.
“Everyone involved in rugby is a very honourable person,” Gavoka stated, adding that many people contribute on a volunteer basis and do not receive compensation for their efforts. He indicated his disappointment with the allegations suggesting that the administration and board are to blame for the current issues.
Gavoka acknowledged that rugby is an expensive sport, especially in Fiji, where it is predominantly played by the iTaukei people, who lack sufficient resources. Despite these limitations, he emphasized the desire to compete against top teams like England and France, while recognizing the economic disparities compared to those countries’ players.
Gavoka admitted that financial issues have long plagued the FRU. He underscored the commitment of those currently in charge, stating, “You look at the guys who are running the show today, they are all honourable people. People who gave so much to rugby.” He recounted his own experience as chairman, where he faced numerous challenges without financial reward.
He highlighted the costs associated with international rugby and the difficulty in attracting sponsorship due to Fiji’s small market size. Gavoka expressed gratitude for the support from Fiji Water and Fiji Airways, yet maintained that financial challenges persist.
“It’s just a simple reality for us in Fiji. We don’t have the resources to run rugby the way people want it to be run. We are a poor country, we are poor people. I want that to be communicated,” he stated. Gavoka also shared a poignant observation of FRU employees coming to work on Fridays uncertain of whether they would get paid. “I was chairman, I looked at their faces, I used to feel bad,” he added, reflecting on the harsh realities faced by those working in the organization.