The Fiji Football Association confirms Aiyaz Umarji Mohammed Musa resigned from his role as the elected Vice President of the Association effectively as of August 7th 2023 and the decision was made prior to his reported conviction in New Zealand.
Umarji was the mastermind behind a syndicate importing and exporting illicit drugs throughout the Pacific with four other associates, now all convicted and sentenced.
He appeared in the Auckland District Court on Wednesday 9th August 2023 for sentencing regarding his involvement in three separate drug importations into New Zealand in 2017.
Umarji has been sentenced to four years and will serve his term of imprisonment in New Zealand.
The Fiji FA says the actions of one individual do not define them as an organisation and they will continue to strive for excellence on and off the field.
They say his resignation encompassed not only his position as the Vice President of Fiji FA but also his role as a member of the FIFA Audit and Compliance Committee.
They say the Fiji FA’s Board of Control convened to consider his resignation through expedited means and in a unanimous decision, accepted his resignation, acknowledging the seriousness of the circumstances and the need to uphold the values and integrity of the Association.
Fiji FA says it is important to note that both FIFA and the Oceania Football Confederation have been duly informed of the Board’s unanimous decision.
They say this proactive communication underscores their commitment to transparency and adherence to established protocols.
The Association says according to the provisions outlined in the Fiji Football Association Statutes, the vacant position of Vice President will be filled in due course.
Fiji FA has reassured their stakeholders and the football-loving community that they remain steadfast in its commitment to promoting the sport of football, fostering sportsmanship, and maintaining the highest standards of ethics and integrity.
