Oceania Rugby has announced a six-month extension of the suspension of the Papua New Guinea Rugby Union (PNGRU) as it continues to seek compliance regarding outstanding documentation related to the organization’s activities. This latest action follows nearly a year of efforts to address ongoing issues that have persisted since allegations of misconduct were raised last June by provincial members concerning mismanagement within the PNGRU board.
The situation has significant implications for PNG Rugby, especially as the women’s national team recently missed the opening round of the 2024 Oceania Rugby Women’s XVs Championships in Brisbane, and neither the men’s nor women’s national sevens teams attended the Olympic qualifiers held in Monaco. These setbacks further highlight the impact of governance issues facing the PNGRU.
Oceania Rugby has engaged an independent panel consisting of reputable figures from across the Oceania region, including highly qualified professionals such as John Kirkup and Karo Maha-Lelai, to review the PNGRU’s operational policies and financial statements. This panel will assess the necessary documentation to support Oceania Rugby’s Executive Board in making a final determination regarding PNGRU’s situation.
Frank Puletua, General Manager of Oceania Rugby, expressed disappointment over the extension but emphasized the importance of the independent review process. He remarked, “PNG is a very important member of the Oceania Rugby family,” and underscored a commitment to seeing rugby thrive in Papua New Guinea. While the extended suspension poses considerable challenges, it may also serve as a vital opportunity for the PNGRU to reform and improve governance practices, paving the way for future success on both regional and international stages.
The suspension’s impact may encourage PNGRU to undertake the necessary structural changes needed for a brighter future in rugby, reigniting hope for the organization to reclaim its place within the regional rugby community.
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