The Fiji Sports Council Board is undergoing a pivotal moment in its governance structure, as it grapples with serious allegations against its Executive Chairman and CEO, Gilbert Vakalalabure. Peter Mazey, the Chairman of the board, has publicly acknowledged concerns regarding Vakalalabure’s dual role, suggesting that it may have led to communication gaps and oversights in board decisions.
In response to these allegations, the Board has placed both Vakalalabure and Operations Manager Litia Senibulu on administrative leave while an investigation takes place. This inquiry is being carried out by Pherrus, an independent Australian finance firm, for a fee that is under $50,000. The investigation, projected to last three weeks, will evaluate 16 critical issues that include financial arrangements with Fiji Airways, expenses related to the Sports Council’s Under 20 trip to New Zealand, and the legitimacy of the council’s sponsored tournaments.
Key areas of focus will also encompass the conditions surrounding the ongoing contracts of the CEO and Executive Chairman, staff engagement practices, and the management of drivers’ overtime for personal use. The inquiry aims to unveil any mismanagement, unauthorized expenditures, employee grievances, and possible breaches of policy or law. Specific agreements, such as the SportsWorx contract and collaborations with Pacific Procurement Management and Investment Services, will also be under scrutiny.
Despite having previously faced investigations from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), which cleared Vakalalabure of certain allegations, the Sports Council Board is committed to addressing new concerns independently. This determination underscores a broader initiative towards transparency and accountability within the council, which is essential for rebuilding public trust. The outcomes of this investigation could potentially lead to significant reforms, fostering a more effective and trustworthy governance structure for the Fiji Sports Council moving forward.