Two key members of the Commission of Inquiry, tasked with investigating the death of featherweight boxer Ubayed Haider, have resigned from their positions. The resignations involve Pita Driti, the former Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Land Force, and Adi Narayan, the chairman of the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
This development was confirmed by Jese Saukuru, the Minister of Youth and Sports. Narayan stated he stepped back from the investigation to ensure transparency and maintain the integrity of the inquiry. He emphasized the importance of delivering unbiased findings. Driti cited a conflict of interest as his reason for stepping down.
Saukuru stated that a replacement for the third member of the Commission is in the works, aiming to finalize the team soon. The current members are Mr. Philip Eneriko, director for Youth and Sports, and Edwin Wainiqolo, a lawyer from Lautoka. Narayan mentioned that Wainiqolo will lead the investigation moving forward, and he refrained from making further comments about the matter.
Haider tragically collapsed during his IBO Asia Pacific featherweight title fight on October 26, underwent head surgery at Lautoka Hospital, and remained in a coma until his death on November 10, followed by his burial on November 12 at the Raralevu Cemetery in Tailevu.
In a positive development for the boxing community, Narayan noted that promoters have begun renewing their licenses for the upcoming year. Bluewater Boxing Promotions, in particular, will be spearheading several events in the coming year. Plans for the first promotions are set to be unveiled in December, led by promoter Samir Khan, who is collaborating with a new partner.
This renewed commitment from boxing promoters underscores a hopeful future for the sport in Fiji, despite the recent tragic events. The ongoing inquiry into Haider’s death aims to ensure the safety and well-being of boxers, reflecting a positive step towards addressing issues in the sport.
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