Gilbert Vakalalabure, the Chief Executive of the Fiji Sports Council, will begin annual leave next week but will not face immediate suspension, according to Acting Board Chair Peter Mazey following an emergency board meeting. The board has not yet reached a decision regarding the potential for Vakalalabure’s suspension.
In response to various concerns raised in recent weeks, an independent investigation will soon commence. The Fiji Sports Council board is finalizing the hiring of an external investigator, having conducted extensive consultations to draft the terms of the inquiry. Mazey pointed out that the scope of the investigation has broadened significantly due to feedback from stakeholders and social media discussions.
The board is committed to thoroughly examining all issues presented to them, including those highlighted online. Recognizing the importance of an independent investigation, Mazey noted the challenges posed by intertwined personal and professional relationships within Fiji. To minimize any potential conflicts of interest, the board is assessing two firms for the investigation: one with a local presence in Fiji and the other from Australia.
Negotiations for the investigation are currently underway, with another board meeting scheduled for tomorrow to discuss further developments. The costs associated with the inquiry will be covered by the Sports Council, with projections indicating expenses will significantly remain below those of a Commission of Inquiry, estimated at under $50,000.
Mazey expressed confidence that the choice of investigator could be finalized within a couple of days, followed by the public release of the full terms of reference. He also indicated that he is leading the meeting in the absence of the board chairman, who participated remotely due to flooding in Lautoka. The board has been leveraging virtual meetings to maintain full participation throughout this ongoing process. All concerns, including those related to human resources, operations, and coaching staff, are expected to be examined in detail as part of the inquiry, with continued discussions scheduled for tomorrow to advance the investigation.