Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka has expressed deep sadness over the recent corruption claims made against the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) by overseas players. In an interview with SUNsports, Gavoka, who previously served as FRU chairman, highlighted the challenges faced by the board and staff at Rugby House.
His comments came in response to a media interview with former Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu, who revealed plans to boycott last year’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against England due to unpaid bonuses and alleged corruption within the FRU. Nayacalevu’s stance was supported by senior players, including Semi Radradra, Levani Botia, Meli Derenalagi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Albert Tuisue, who have also called for the removal of the interim Trustees and staff members at FRU.
“Everyone involved in rugby is a very honourable person,” stated Gavoka, emphasizing that many are volunteers who invest significant time and effort without compensation. He voiced his disappointment regarding the senior players’ claims attributing the ongoing issues to the administration and board.
Gavoka acknowledged the financial strains of rugby in Fiji, stating, “Rugby is a very costly sport, and for Fiji, it’s played mostly by the iTaukei, and we don’t have the resources.” He expressed a desire for Fiji to compete internationally against teams like England and France, but recognized the limitations faced due to lack of funding.
He pointed out that money has always been a persistent challenge for FRU, noting, “You look at the guys who are running the show today; they are all honourable people who have contributed greatly to rugby.” He remarked on the difficulties faced by the administration, recalling his tenure as chairman where personal sacrifices were made for the sport.
Gavoka urged for respect towards current FRU leaders like Peter Mazey and highlighted the challenges of attracting sponsorship in a small market like Fiji. He affirmed that financial resources are a consistent hurdle, stating, “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.”
He concluded by sharing the reality faced by FRU staff, who often arrived not knowing whether they would receive their salaries. “I used to look at their faces and feel bad. That’s the reality of all that,” he said.