Gilbert Vakalalabure, the Chief Executive of the Fiji Sports Council, will not face suspension but will take annual leave starting next week, as confirmed by Acting Board Chair Peter Mazey following an emergency board meeting. The board has yet to discuss or decide on the possibility of Vakalalabure’s suspension.
An independent investigation is set to begin in response to various concerns that have emerged in recent weeks. The Fiji Sports Council board is currently finalizing the appointment of an external investigator, with extensive consultations already conducted to create detailed terms for the inquiry. According to Mazey, the investigation’s scope has expanded significantly due to issues raised by stakeholders and discussions on social media.
The board has adopted a comprehensive approach, committing to investigate all matters brought to their attention, including those mentioned online. Mazey emphasized the necessity of an independent investigation, free from conflicts of interest, which can be particularly challenging in Fiji due to closely interconnected personal and professional relationships. To mitigate potential conflicts, the board is evaluating two firms for the investigation: one based in Australia with local offices and a local company.
Negotiations are currently in progress, and another board meeting is scheduled for tomorrow to discuss developments. The investigation’s costs will be borne by the Sports Council and are projected to be significantly lower than a Commission of Inquiry, with an estimated budget of less than $50,000.
Mazey expressed optimism that the selection of the investigator will be completed within the next one to two days, after which the full terms of reference will be made public. He also clarified that he is acting as chair in place of the board chairman, who participated in the meeting remotely due to flooding in Lautoka. The board has been utilizing virtual meetings to ensure full participation in the ongoing process. All concerns, including those related to human resources, operations, and coaching staff, are anticipated to be part of the inquiry, with another board meeting set for tomorrow to further progress the investigation.