The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, has expressed deep sadness over the recent corruption allegations directed at the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) by players based abroad. Speaking to SUNsports, Gavoka, who previously served as FRU chairman, acknowledged the challenges faced by the organization’s board of directors and staff.
His comments come in response to a media interview with former Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu. Nayacalevu revealed that there was a plan to boycott the Rugby World Cup quarter-final against England last year, citing unpaid bonuses and corruption within the FRU. Notable players such as Semi Radradra, Levani Botia, Meli Derenalagi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, and Albert Tuisue supported Nayacalevu’s claims and called for the removal of interim trustees and staff members at the FRU.
Gavoka emphasized that everyone involved in rugby holds honorable intentions and that the sport largely relies on volunteers. He expressed disappointment at the players’ accusations against the administration, stating, “Rugby is a very costly sport, and for Fiji, it’s played mostly by the iTaukei, and we don’t have the resources.”
He noted the desire to compete against teams like England and France, acknowledging the financial disparities. “We should understand that we cannot operate like the English or French teams,” Gavoka remarked, highlighting the persistent funding challenges faced by the FRU.
He defended the current leadership, stating that they are honorable individuals dedicated to rugby. Gavoka reflected on his own experience as chairman, where he received criticism without any financial compensation, emphasizing the lack of resources that inhibits the growth of rugby in Fiji.
He pointed out that international rugby comes with significant costs and stressed the importance of respecting the contributions of individuals like Peter Mazey. While acknowledging the potential for sponsorship with companies like Fiji Water and Fiji Airways, he reiterated that financial constraints remain a core issue for the sport in Fiji.
“Our reality is that we are a country with limited resources. I want to make that clear,” Gavoka stated, expressing concern for FRU staff who often came to work unsure if they would receive payment. He concluded by sharing his empathy for their situation, recognizing the difficulties in the current landscape of Fijian rugby.