Fiji Rugby Union sacks director over same-sex relationship comments

Fiji Rugby Union has fired Laijipa Naulivou from her position as Director of Rugby just four days after her appointment.

Naulivou, the first woman to captain the Fijiana, joined the FRU Board last Saturday.

But on Tuesday, she expressed controversial views in an interview with the Fiji Sun, saying that she opposed sexual attraction between women during her playing days.

She claimed that while Fijian women rugby players had rights, relationships affecting team dynamics "should be taken out".

"Those who played with me know that I do not condone being gay for women in rugby," she told the newspaper.

"I know I'm very unpopular in that area with those who practice it. I will keep emphasising it because that was one big drawback when we went to the first HSBC sevens tournament."

Her comments sparked outrage among various individuals and organisations, particularly Fiji women's rights advocates.

The Fiji Women's Rights Movement (FWRM) swiftly condemned her statements, asserting that sexual orientation should not impede participation, leadership, or achievement in sports, including rugby.

FWRM executive director Nalini Singh criticised Naulivou's views, saying, "The notion that being gay is a 'problem' in women's rugby is deeply troubling and perpetuates harmful stereotypes that have no place in modern sports or society.

Pictured left: Laijipa Naulivou leads the celebrations with the Fijiana team at the Hong Kong sevens tournament in 1996. Pictured right: Naulivou, middle row at centre, with the Saint John Marist women's 7s team of the 1980s. Photo/Nativekingsphotography/Saint John Marist Rugby Club, Suva

"Rather than focusing your efforts on the sexuality of the players, you do your job and look for adequate funding and provide for the well-being of the women rugby players so that they don't have to sleep on benches in front of airports and walk miles to their training," Singh said in a statement.

When FRU board chairman John Sanday announced Naulivou's appointment on 1 February, he praised her contributions to rugby.

"She's of great standing, and we respect that. She's also had involvement with hockey, so she's no stranger to sport and elite performance," Sanday told a media conference at Rugby House in Suva.

He highlighted Naulivou's extensive sports experience and expressed confidence in her ability to contribute positively.

Fiji Rugby Union Chairman John Sanday addresses the media at the FRU headquarters in Suva. Photo/The Fiji Times/Kata Koli

"We respect her knowledge and her experience, and we look forward to her contribution and working together to build rugby and to build it to Tier One status."

However, the FRU quickly distanced itself from Naulivou's comments, saying, "They are her personal opinions and do not reflect the official position of the FRU".

The FRU emphasised its commitment to high standards of governance and integrity, aligning itself with World Rugby's core values, which promote inclusion and non-discrimination.

In light of the backlash, the FRU Board of Directors resolved to terminate Naulivou's contract.

Fiji Women’s Rights Movement executive director Nalini Singh says the head-in-the-sand attitude is costing lives in Fiji which has "very high rates of violence against women and girls". Photo/FWRM

"While she had tendered her resignation, the Board determined that a firm stance was necessary to reinforce its commitment to upholding professional standards and safeguarding the integrity of Fiji Rugby," Sanday told the media.

"FRU categorically rejects any form of discrimination."

He reassured the Fijian women's rugby team and all female players that this incident would not impact their opportunities or development.

Sanday also affirmed the FRU's commitment to inclusivity and empowerment for all, regardless of gender, background, or identity.

Naulivou had replaced Conway Beg, who withdrew due to personal commitments.