Andrea SannaFiji Women’s Rugby Union in turmoil
Director Laijipa Naulivou has been sacked after making controversial comments about an alleged “gay issue” within the Fiji Women’s Rugby Union.
In an interview with the Fiji Sun, Naulivou said she did not condone homosexuality among female rugby players.
The comments sparked a public backlash and the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) immediately distanced itself from them, saying they did not reflect the official position of the FRU.
The FRU has since decided to terminate Naulivou’s contract as director of women’s rugby.
Strong condemnation has come from the women’s rights community and LGBTQIA organisations, who have described Naulivou’s comments as “discriminatory and harmful”.
Nalini Singh, executive director of the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, also condemned Naulivou’s comments, saying, “The perception of homosexuality as a problem is deeply disturbing and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
This is a wake-up call for sport, especially women’s sport. A wake-up call that the battle for rights has not yet been won.
