Gilbert Vakalalabure, the chief executive officer of the Fiji Sports Council (FSC), has been placed on annual leave pending an investigation into 16 serious allegations made against him. This decision, announced by FSC board member Peter Mazey, comes a month after the allegations first surfaced, emphasizing the board’s commitment to ensuring a transparent inquiry.
Mazey, flanked by fellow board members Della Shaw-Elder and Peceli Vosanibola, stated that Vakalalabure’s leave is meant to prevent any potential interference with the investigation. Litia Senibulu, the operations manager, has also been sent on leave as part of these precautionary measures.
To ensure that the investigation proceeds smoothly, the FSC has engaged Pherrus Financial Services, an Australian finance firm with a local presence, to look into the allegations. The quoted cost for this investigation stands at $49,000, and Mazey expressed hope that the findings will be straightforward without the need for extended inquiry, which could increase costs.
The investigation is expected to take four weeks, with auditors required to sign a confidentiality agreement to avoid any conflicts of interest. Mazey addressed concerns regarding the potential outcomes of the investigation, indicating that if necessary, findings could be escalated to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) or the Police.
The various allegations under investigation include concerns related to a contra deal with Fiji Airways, issues surrounding the FSC U20 rugby 7s team’s trip to Hamilton, and various management practices, among others. These issues highlight deep-rooted concerns regarding governance and financial management within the council.
The FSC board’s careful approach in handling this situation demonstrates a commitment to accountability and transparency, which is crucial in restoring confidence among stakeholders. As the investigation unfolds, there is hope for a resolution that not only clarifies the allegations but also leads to improved governance practices within the sports council.
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