Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged the concerns voiced by former Flying Fijians Captain Waisea Nayacalevu regarding allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), emphasizing that these issues require immediate attention.
In a statement, Rabuka expressed that he had been informed about the ongoing administrative struggles within the FRU, particularly following Nayacalevu’s comments in an interview with the Daily Mail UK.
“I recognized that there was some maladministration occurring within the Fiji Rugby Union. At their last meeting, when the FRU determined that the government would no longer have a role in its operations, I accepted their decision as it is their organization to manage as they wish,” he said.
Rabuka noted that during a Special General Meeting at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay Convention Centre, the 26 member unions approved a new structural change.
“This new structure allows unions to nominate and vote for their preferred candidates for each position. There will be no more involvement from government or Prime Minister nominees, nor appointments from World Rugby—it’s entirely a matter for Fiji Rugby, where union members will cast their votes.”
While acknowledging the FRU’s autonomy in managing its affairs, Rabuka reiterated his commitment to supporting the Flying Fijians.
“Last year, when there was a threat of a boycott for the World Cup quarterfinal, I communicated to the then interim administrator Simione Valenitabua, ‘Let the team train, and the Government will provide the funding.’ Our national team deserves our unwavering support.”