Faiaaz Ali, the former Acting President of the Lautoka Football Association, has taken decisive steps in the wake of the unauthorized disclosure of an internal email that he argues infringes on confidentiality. The email, which appeared on the Facebook pages of Fiji Sports News and the Fiji Exposed Forum, prompted Ali to report the breach to both the Police and the Online Safety Commission.
The leaked email pertained specifically to Ali, requesting a detailed overview of the financial records from his brief tenure as Acting President, which lasted from April 29 to May 23, 2025. The Lautoka Football Association has stated that they made multiple attempts to contact Ali through emails and phone calls to secure vital information regarding the income and expenses incurred during his presidency. However, their efforts have not yielded the necessary responses.
The association has indicated that the lack of timely financial reporting could impede preparations for an upcoming financial audit slated for 2025 and risks delaying the Annual General Meeting scheduled for next month. The communication sent to Ali demands a comprehensive income and expenditure statement within a week, along with pertinent supporting documents, including receipts and minutes from executive meetings that sanctioned expenses during his term.
Moreover, the letter seeks clarification on loans taken out in the name of Lautoka FA, details concerning donations solicited using the association’s letterhead, and the financial status regarding the online sale of Lautoka FA merchandise, which the association asserts has not been accounted for.
In a media statement, Ali expressed his dismay over the public exposure of the email, clarifying that it was not meant for public consumption. He also raised pertinent questions about the implications and timing of the claims within the email, asserting his readiness to engage with the relevant authorities to address the situation.
This incident underscores ongoing issues within sports organizations related to transparency and accountability, reinforcing the critical importance of maintaining clear communication and following proper protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future. The situation remains a pivotal moment for both Ali and the Lautoka Football Association as they navigate these challenges, highlighting their commitment to addressing concerns and fostering an accountable organizational environment.