FIJI Bulikulas head coach Joe Rabele has called on Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) board members to resolve their internal differences privately, stating that public disputes are damaging the organisation’s credibility.
This follows the ongoing dispute within the organisation between the chairman Rajesh Singh and few of the FNRL staff members.
Rabele expressed concern over ongoing conflicts within the governing body, saying the situation was unprecedented in his years of service to the sport.
“As a pioneer for rugby league in Fiji and after many years of involvement, this is the first time I have come across such conflict involving executives and staff within the organisation,” he said.
He believes the public airing of issues, particularly on social media, has only intensified criticism and hindered progress.
“When the FNRL board, the head of the organisation remains in an unresolved situation, it holds everyone back from moving forward,” Rabele said.
With the Rugby League World Cup just five months away, he raised concern over the lack of local competitions to identify and prepare players.
“This ongoing conflict is stopping us from progressing. There are no local competitions organised for player selection, yet the World Cup is months away. The board needs to resolve this matter urgently so we can prepare properly,” he said.
Rabele added that the absence of domestic competition could impact team selection, particularly for the Bulikula side.
“If there are no local players selected for the Bulikula team, then the board should not question that outcome. They need to address their issues first so we can establish proper competitions,” he said.
He is also urging local rugby league clubs to step in and call for a Special General Meeting (SGM), saying it is necessary for restoring proper governance within the organisation.
Rabele stressed that unity and decisive leadership were crucial to ensuring Fiji rugby league remains competitive on the international stage.
