The first stage of the investigation into Fiji Sports Council CEO Gilbert Vakalalabure has concluded, with findings now being drafted and set to be presented to the board this week.
Board vice-chair Peter Mazey declined to comment on the contents of the report, noting that he was unable to divulge the findings at this stage.
The council engaged Suva financial services firm Pherrus to conduct the investigation, which has taken just over four weeks, following allegations raised against Mr Vakalalabure and senior staff member.
Mr Vakalalabure and the council’s operations manager, Litia Senibulu, have been sent on leave and then Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru also stepped aside from his role to allow the process to proceed without interference.
A total of 16 issues are being examined as part of the investigation, covering a wide range of operational and governance matters.
These include the use by FSC of “contra” benefits from Fiji Airways in return for advertising, the FSC-supported Under-20 rugby sevens trip to Hamilton, a council-sponsored sports tournament, and the alleged “restructuring” of operations and staffing, including salary adjustments.
Other areas under review involved the appointment of an executive chairman, the CEO appointment process, overtime claims for a driver’s private use, staff engagement practices, contract and tender procedures, use of motor vehicles, and allegations of mismanagement and unauthorised expenses.
The investigation also looked into the council’s response to board resolutions, staff concerns, and reported breaches of policy or law, as well as agreements involving Infinite Power Clean Energy Ltd, SportsWorx, and Pacific Procurement Management and Investment Services.
An additional allegation examined centred on an arrangement involving office space at the National Hockey Centre, owned by the Fiji Sports Council.
It is alleged that the “Rokoika & Vakalalabure” law firm, owned by the CEO’s brother, occupied the space without directly paying rent, with rental costs instead deducted from Mr Gilbert Vakalalabure’s salary of a senior council official.
The board is expected to review the findings once the draft report is formally presented.
