Fiji Sports Council board silent on new allegations

New allegations of misuse of funds have surfaced within the Fiji Sports Council (FSC).

The FSC board has remained tight-lipped following the clearance of its chief executive officer, Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure, of corruption allegations by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) last week.

Questions sent to board chairman Peniasi Sokia last Friday remain unanswered. Board members appointed by Minister for Sports Jese Saukuru are Peter Mazey, Makarita Lenoa, Della Shaw-Elder, Peniasi Sokia and Semesa Karavaki. Sera Vosaki serves as board secretary.

When contacted by phone about the new allegations yesterday, Sokia asked for the questions to be emailed. He did not respond before this edition went to press.

The new allegations include claims that FSC accounts were depleted during Vakalalabure’s chairmanship in 2023. A significant reduction was observed in three FSC accounts — from $2 million to $32,000 by February 2024.

This was among several complaints filed by a whistleblower with FICAC in March 2025.

Vakalalabure was initially investigated by FICAC but was cleared by Acting FICAC Commissioner Lavi Rokoika. She is married to Tevita Tangaroa, Vakalalabure’s brother and lawyer.

Vakalalabure was part of the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) campaign team during the 2022 General Election.

Several complaints were filed against him, including the alleged abuse of a contra deal with Fiji Airways. The arrangement was reportedly used to pay for a business-class ticket for Saukuru’s wife for a trip to New Zealand in January last year.

Saukuru has indicated he would pay for the ticket. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka summoned Saukuru for a meeting. That meeting has yet to take place.

More allegations

Other claims include a 105 per cent increase in salaries, which allegedly consumed 70 per cent of FSC income; the purchase of motor vehicles without tender or secured quotes; and discussions with third parties to develop sporting fields without board knowledge or approval.

It is also alleged that his appointment as chairman by Saukuru was directed by the Prime Minister.

Questions sent to Rabuka and Saukuru remain unanswered.

In Lautoka on Thursday, after an agreement signing with Tennis Fiji, Vakalalabure declined to comment when approached.

Questions sent to his lawyer, Tangaroa, on Monday also remain unanswered.

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj