The Fiji Women's Crisis Centre is deeply disappointed with the Fiji Rugby Union for its ongoing lack of genuine commitment to addressing violence against women and girls.
This comes as Iosefo Masi has been named to start at outside centre for the Fiji Water Flying Fijians in their clash against the Wallabies this afternoon.
FWCC believes that Masi should be stood down from national duties until all legal proceedings against him are concluded.
They say the Fiji Rugby Union must be decisive if it believes in gender equality and preventing violence against women and girls.
FWCC says it re-established ties with Fiji Rugby after a long hiatus, believing the organisation was taking a new and progressive direction.
They say they are disappointed with Fiji Rugby’s lack of action in this particular situation.
FWCC says Fiji Rugby’s decisions undermine the National Action Plan for the Prevention of All Forms of Violence Against Women and Girls and send a harmful message to aspiring female rugby players in Fiji.
They say it is time for Fiji Rugby to take decisive and meaningful action.
FWCC says gender equality in sports is not just about women’s participation, but also about their dignity and ensuring fair treatment.
Meanwhile, 26-year-old Masi is charged with one count of assaulting a 21-year-old woman on 15th April 2025.
We have sent questions to FRU.
