Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) President Rajesh Patel has issued a strong warning to districts across the country to ensure compliance with mandatory provisions, following the conclusion of the Fiji FA’s 87th Annual Congress.
“If districts do not follow the mandatory provisions, the districts will be suspended and then we will take it from there because it is FIFA funding,” Patel stated.
He addressed concerns raised on social media and assured transparency and accountability in the use of funds provided by FIFA.
“If they say Fiji FA is not giving any funds, they’re totally lying.
“We gave close to $400,000 to all districts. This is something the districts have to understand and they have to be accountable for it,” he added.
Patel emphasised his role in safeguarding the integrity and governance of football in Fiji.
“I am there to make sure the compliance, the governance is there and we have to make sure that it is not destroyed by any illegal activities,” he said.
He also commented on the recent social media discussions questioning the leadership of the association.
“There are a lot of things going on in social media and if the districts feel they’re the candidates to run it, then football has to seek another direction,” Patel warned.
Patel concluded by reaffirming Fiji FA’s commitment to developing the sport and maintaining a clean environment for football.
“We know for sure that we are the custodians, we will make sure football remains and the development will happen and this sport will be drug-free,” he declared.
