Saukuru Calls for Transparency in FRU CEO Change

Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru has taken a cautious approach on the sudden appointment of Koli Sewabu as Fiji Rugby Union interim chief executive officer.

The official announcement was done yesterday in a hurried press conference at Rugby House where FRU board chairman John Sanday announced the departure of former CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu.

Sanday said Nayacalevu has resigned due to personal reasons.

Speaking to SUNsports, Saukuru said he was not aware or even made aware of the change that was taking place.

"As an organisation, first of all, they should be following protocol and procedures," he said.

"It is the decision of the board to put somebody there and if they remove one, there should be an explanation for it."

Saukuru said FRU belongs to the people of Fiji, the affiliated clubs and the provincial teams.

"It does not belong to a particular person or a group of individuals. So, the board should be active within the boundaries of the law and the constitution."

Former FRU CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu.

"We're not just building teams, we're building people. From grassroots to elite level, our systems must align," Sewabu said

"We're reviewing our high-performance strategies and looking at where we can strengthen, especially in coaching, talent identification, and player welfare."

Sewabu said the FRU leadership has acknowledged past controversies and is committed to restoring public and sponsor confidence through transparency, performance, and cultural reform.

"It's not just about winning games, it's about rebuilding a rugby culture Fijians can be proud of," Sewabu added.

Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj