Fiji’s Minister of Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru says Fiji Rugby Union trustees are prepared to investigate allegations of corruption and late payments if players present concrete evidence.
Speaking in Parliament, Saukuru acknowledged claims made by players but noted that no substantial proof has been provided to back these accusations.
The trustees have expressed their willingness to pass on credible information to FICAC or the police for further investigation.
While the trustees are concerned about the players’ issues, they have emphasised the need for proper evidence before taking any further action.
Saukuru also confirmed that all players who represented Fiji at the 2023 Rugby World Cup have been fully compensated by the FRU.
He also announced that the Drua Under-16 Academy, run by the Fiji Rugby High-Performance Unit, serves as the main entry point for young rugby talent in the country.
Each year, 30 players from the Deans Competition across Fiji are selected for the academy, receiving an annual support allowance of $2,000 (US$1,000) to help with their development over a two-year period.
By the time these players turn 18, the top talents are given the opportunity to join the Drua Development Programme, where they can earn a starting salary of $10,000 (US$5,000) to $15,000 (US$7,500) per year.
This program not only hones their skills but also lays the foundation for a professional rugby career.
The best players can secure contracts with the Drua franchise, starting with a base salary of $40,000(US$20,000) annually.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has come to the defence of the Fiji Rugby Union trustees, calling them “heroes” for stepping in during a critical period.
He revealed in Parliament that the FRU was facing serious challenges, and without the trustees, Fiji could have been excluded from the Rugby World Cup.
Kamikamica stressed the importance of understanding the work done behind the scenes before rushing to judgment.
“These men and women were called in when the FRU was on its knees. They saved us from being kicked out of the World Cup, and they’ve done it without being paid a single cent.”
Kamikamica explained that the previous FRU structure was found to be illegal, and the trustees were tasked with fixing it to ensure Fiji’s participation in the World Cup.
Now the trustees are preparing to hand over power to the FRU board by 28 November.
He urged the public to recognise their efforts and avoid unjustified criticism, noting that the trustees have worked tirelessly to protect the future of Fiji Rugby.
Kamikamica adds that the trustees are carrying out their work without being paid a single cent.
