Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that any claims regarding the misuse of funds linked to rugby players should be addressed during the Fiji Rugby Union’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and referred for further investigation.
Rabuka’s remarks came after he was questioned about a live interview conducted by Facebook influencer Lesi Vanuavou, in which senior players Lepani Botia, Semi Radradra, and Waisea Nayacalevu spoke about issues surrounding unpaid contracts and unfulfilled promises to coaches and officials. Nayacalevu specifically called for accountability from the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) and advocated for significant changes within the organization.
“The comments from national rugby representatives are concerning,” Rabuka expressed. He emphasized that players do not control the funds; that responsibility lies with the officials. Rabuka pointed out that the financial activities of the union are detailed in audited accounts, which are presented at the AGM. Any discrepancies should be examined during this meeting and thoroughly investigated.
He further clarified that the government will not intervene regarding the recent allegations of maladministration at the FRU. Rabuka highlighted that the FRU has explicitly stated their desire for no government involvement in rugby matters in Fiji.
Last year, the FRU was suspended from the World Rugby Council following the election of the Coalition Government, which led to the establishment of an interim board to draft a new constitution. However, World Rugby reinstated the FRU as a council member last month after a suspension lasting nearly 15 months due to governance issues.