Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that any allegations concerning the misuse of funds involving rugby players should be addressed at the Fiji Rugby Union’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and reported for investigation. Rabuka shared his views during an inquiry about a recent live interview conducted by Facebook influencer Lesi Vanuavou, in which prominent players Lepani Botia, Semi Radradra, and Waisea Nayacalevu discussed issues related to unpaid contracts and unfulfilled promises, as well as unpaid coaches and officials.
Nayacalevu called for accountability from the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) and advocated for significant changes within the organization. “It is troubling to hear from national rugby representatives,” Rabuka remarked. He emphasized that players do not manage funds, but rather the officials do. He pointed out that the usage of funds is only disclosed in the union’s financial statements, which are audited by reputable auditors and presented at annual general meetings. Any discrepancies should be examined at the AGM and reported for appropriate investigation.
Rabuka also clarified that the government will not intervene regarding the recent allegations of maladministration within the FRU. “The Fiji Rugby Union made it clear at their last AGM that they do not want any government involvement in the affairs of rugby in Fiji,” he said, confirming that both he and his government will respect this stance.
The FRU had been removed from the World Rugby Council last year after the Coalition Government took office and appointed an interim board to establish a new constitution. However, World Rugby reinstated the FRU as a member of the governing council last month, concluding a suspension of nearly 15 months related to “governance challenges.”