Laijipa Naulivou, recently appointed as a director of the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), has ignited controversy with her stance against women in same-sex relationships representing the national team. Her comments have drawn sharp criticism from women’s rights advocates in the country.
Naulivou, the first woman to captain Fiji’s women’s rugby team, was appointed to the FRU board on February 1, 2025, following the resignation of businessman Conway Begg due to personal commitments.
In an interview with the Fiji Sun, she stated, “Those who played with me know that I do not condone being gay for women in rugby.” She further emphasized, “I will keep emphasising it because that was one big drawback when we went to the first HSBC sevens tournament.”
Reflecting on her tenure as team manager prior to a World Rugby HSBC SVNS tournament, Naulivou recounted, “This was one area that we had to fight against, so when I came back, I wrote my report and that was my recommendation that we take away the coach and those involved.”
She added, “This was better instead of a person who practices lesbianism being up there and choosing her people. To me that is unethical and it’s not right.”
The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) has condemned Naulivou’s remarks. Executive Director Nalini Singh asserted, “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.”
Singh urged Naulivou to focus on securing adequate funding and ensuring the well-being of women rugby players, highlighting past instances where players faced hardships such as sleeping on benches in front of airports and walking miles to training.
FRU Board Chairman John Sanday, upon announcing Naulivou’s appointment, praised her contributions to rugby, stating, “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.” He expressed confidence in her ability to help elevate Fiji Rugby to Tier One status.
Naulivou’s comments have ignited a broader debate about inclusivity and discrimination in sports, with many calling for a reaffirmation of Fiji’s commitment to human rights and equality.
