Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has firmly rejected assertions that he ordered the closure of the HFC Bank Stadium. This clarification follows a recent public statement from the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union (FSSRU), which claimed the Prime Minister had made such an order.
Rabuka emphasized, “I did not issue any directive for the closure of the grounds at the HFC Bank Stadium in Laucala Bay, nor do I have any intention of doing so.” He pointed out that he lacks the legal authority to make such decisions, a responsibility that falls entirely within the purview of the Fiji Sports Council, the facility’s owner.
His involvement in the matter was limited to raising concerns regarding the stadium’s deteriorating pitch condition, particularly after the recent Fiji Water Flying Fijians test match against Scotland. The Prime Minister expressed apprehension about the state of the pitch, which featured soft patches and uneven surfaces, making it unsuitable for international rugby events.
Moreover, Rabuka highlighted his hopes that the FSSRU would amend their statement to prevent further public misunderstandings. This situation is critical as Fiji looks to strengthen its reputation in the international sports arena and ensure the safety of its athletes during matches.
Similar concerns regarding the management of sports facilities in Fiji have been addressed in earlier discussions, particularly about scheduling conflicts that can compromise athletes’ safety. Previous comments from the Prime Minister indicate an overarching need for improved infrastructure and better scheduling practices to uphold the quality of international sporting events in Fiji.
With ongoing efforts to address these facility management issues, there remains a hopeful outlook that collaboration between governmental bodies and sports organizations could lead to significant improvements. By prioritizing athlete welfare and facility conditions, Fiji can enhance its standing in global sports, fostering greater community pride and encouraging wider participation in athletic endeavors.
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