More revelations have surfaced regarding the controversial final report by the Board of Inquiry (B.O.I) into the death of featherweight boxer Ubayed Haider.

The report was tabled in Parliament this week by the Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru.

At a press conference in Nadi yesterday, B.O.I leader Edwin Wainiqolo said the report was first handed to Saukuru as a preliminary version before he deemed it final.

“If you see the press release that was done on the 30th of January, the report that we’ve actually produced, the minister considered it as a preliminary report,” Wainiqolo said.

The Lautoka lawyer said this is because the promoter’s interview wasn’t done.

“The Minister wanted to hear what the promoter actually says regarding the event. So he considered the first report that we provided as a preliminary report.”

Wainiqolo said they were given a timeline to finalise the final report, which must include the promoter’s interview.

“There were many attempts but we couldn’t succeed. So without any other further delay, the minister accepted it as a final report. This is because attempts have been made to the promoter and he actually has exercised his own rights.”

Wainiqolo also confirmed that they had received a lot of demands from promoter Fred Chand’s lawyer if they are to go ahead with the interview.

EXPOSED

Haider’s older brother, Sebastian Singh, questioned the manner in which the report was handled, suggesting it was intended to be brushed under the carpet.

“How can a report being finalised as the final one without the promoter being interviewed and the investigation is not completed?” Singh queried.

Singh posted on social media his correspondence with Wainiqolo about the report, where there were allegation of bribery and the Minister’s call for the report to be the final one, alleging to say that it was a waste of time.

“What this person (close to the investigation) told me the minister said it was a waste of time. My brother who stood in the ring, represented our nation and put his life on the line is a waste for time for you- Minister Saukutu. Is this the kind of people running our country,” Singh stated on video.

When asked about his correspondence with Singh, Wainiqolo said: “I haven’t seen the conversation that was snapped (on Facebook), but I can confirm that I’ve been in contact with Sebastian, both on the phone and on social media outlets. Including Facebook.

“I was actually in touch with him on most of the questions he raised regarding the progress of the investigation. I normally provided him with answers on social media because it was the fastest way.

“I understand that his brother was the one who died, and it was only right that we provide them with progressive updates going on.”

SAUKURU REPLIES

Saukuru issued a press statement on his reply to Singh’s allegations.

“First and foremost, it is important to clarify that the report represents the findings of the B.O.I following extensive interviews and consultations with key stakeholders,” he said.

“Despite delays caused by the unavailability of certain witnesses, the B.O.I has now concluded its investigation.

The purpose of the B.O.I of Inquiry was to provide an avenue for the Fijian people to raise their concerns, present evidence, and ensure that all necessary actions are taken to safeguard the welfare and safety of our athletes.

“At no point did I state that the interviews conducted by the Commission were a “waste of time,” as alleged by Mr Singh. I will allow the, B.O.I, to clarify their position on this matter directly.

“While I respect Mr. Singh’s views, I invite him to engage constructively with the ministry and the broader team on how we can collectively grow and improve the sport of boxing in Fiji.

“Mr Ubayd Haidar was a talented boxer who represented the hopes of his family, his supporters, and our nation. His passing is not only a great loss to the boxing community but to the entire country.”

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj