Fiji Rugby Union- A Rising Cloud of Suspicion?

In a follow up to an earlier SiFM post regarding the affairs with Fiji Rugby (FRU) and surrounding the tainted past of its current acting CEO, the ever recalcitrant Keni Dakuidreketi.

The current Fiji Rugby Union President, Filipe Tuisawau has issued a seven day ultimatum to the FRU board, as a Fiji Times (FT) article outlines.

The excerpt of the FT article:

One week for FRU board

Indra Singh
Wednesday, October 21, 2009

FIJI Rugby Union president Ro Filipe Tuisawau has given his board until the end of the week to change its mind before formally asking for the Prime Minister's office to intervene.

Tuisawau wants acting chief executive Keni Dakuidreketi, who is facing corruption charges, removed from office. The Rewa chief has hit out at the board for refusing to accept the resignation of Dakuidreketi.

Tuisawau has been a vocal critic of Dakuidreketi since earlier this year.

"I understand that the board will meet again this week and I am hopeful that they will reconsider Keni's case given the concerns," Tuisawau said. "Failing that I will formally ask the Prime Ministers office to intervene.

"After that, I will envisage a joint meeting with the board, convened by the Government to agree on a way forward. " I am sure that the outcome will be positive for all. We will then progress from there."

Dakuidreketi refused to be drawn into the debate but said Tuisawau should follow the right channel.

"It is obvious from the start that Ro Filipe does not want me here and wants me removed," Dakuidreketi said. "He must have his reasons but if he has some issues, than he should come to the board and talk about the issues at hand."

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has also called for the resignation of Dakuidreketi, who faces charges lodged by the Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption.

Dakuidreketi said he was upset by calls for his resignation. "I'm saddened that I've been found guilty by the highest law of the land even before the trial," he said.

It is still unclear if Dakuidreketi will travel on the end-of-the-year tour.

Dakuidreketi's defenders including the Chairman and some of the board, reacted to the negative potrayal, claiming that any interference will incur the wrath of the International Rugby Board (IRB) as described in a Fiji Village (FV) article.

The excerpt of F.V article:

Govt interference could threaten IRB membership
Publish date/time: 21/10/2009 [16:57]


The Fiji Rugby Union said that if government is brought in to interfere in their decision that Acting CEO Keni Dakuidreketi remain in his post, it could threaten its membership of the International Rugby Board (IRB).

This is in reply to FRU President Ro Filipe Tuisawau giving the Board an ultimatum to change their decision on keeping Dakuidreketi or he would call on government intervention to resolve the issue.

There is an audio file attached to this story. Please login to listen.

However, the FRU Chairman Bill Gavoka said the rugby house has its links with the IRB and there will be serious implications if government intervenes on the affairs of the Rugby House.

There is an audio file attached to this story. Please login to listen.

Bye-Law 10 of the IRB Constitution, subsection C states, that a union may be suspended pursuant to the IRB Bye-Laws and regulations if state authorities interfere in its affairs.

Gavoka hopes that Ro Filipe will think things through before seeking government intervention especially since Fiji rugby is under the IRB Body, which provides assistance and organizes tournaments which we participate in.

The pointed posturing and predictable belligerence from FRU, only raises many eyebrows, with respect to ethical standards and begs the question: why is Dakuidreketi so hard to replace? Are there any other discrepancies within Rugby house that may warrant FICAC's attention?

Before this mess with FRU was even being close to being resolved, the latest news from SMH of the upcoming Fiji tour of Europe, highlighted the super extravagant number of officials touring with the 30 man squad and simply goes to show the lack of sensitivity or judgement, from FRU's head honcho.

The excerpt of SMH article:

Officials swell Fiji rugby tour party
October 21, 2009 - 2:24PM .
AP

Cash-strapped Fiji will send 15 officials to accompany 30 players on its three-match end of year rugby tour to Europe.

The official contingent in the 45-strong tour party will include two physiotherapists, a media officer, administrative officer, a trainer and video analyst, the Fiji Times newspaper reported.

The Fiji Rugby Union has been struggling for some time to find a major sponsor for its national team but its chief executive, Keni Dakuidreketi, denied the tour party was extravagant.

"Under the IRB Tier One Test rules, each union is allowed 30 players and a management team of up to 15," Dakuidreketi told the Times.

"For the costs, FRU will pay for the airfares and the allowances while the host unions will cater for all other costs from the time we land in the respective country.

"This will be for the 45 tour squad but as for any extra, FRU will have to fork out itself."

Dakuidreketi said Fiji was a top-10 rugby nation - ranked eighth in the
world on IRB listings - and had to act accordingly.

"Everyone we are taking is for a reason and those like a video analyst, who we want to learn and get used to the new technology," he said. "At the same time we will have trainer Naca Cawanibuka who will work with experts there."

Fiji will play Scotland on November 15, Ireland on November 22 and Romania on November 29.

© 2009 AP

It is rather incredulous to see Dakuidreketi justifying the need for 15 member official entourage, based on the fact of that the tour is operating under "IRB's tier 1 test match rules".

Irregardless of the tier 1 test rules, the sad fact of the matter is that; Fiji Rugby 15s team is not a tier 1 rugby entity. The apparent lack of financial resources does not seem to dissuade the FRU board's deliberate and obnoxious manner of "living beyond their means".

Added to that, is a seemingly two tiered system of natural justice, where the celebrated 15's coach of Fiji, Ilivasi Tabua was dismissed on mere allegations of drinking alcohol while on tour and the unceremonious removal of sevens icon Waisale Serevi from duties as IRB 7s circuit coach.

Fiji Times Sports Columnist, Percy Kean calls for an Governemnt intervention in his opinion piece. Kean's opinion highlights the urgent need for a honest broker to navigate FRU out of stagnancy and undertaking the major task of draining the cesspool of politicization and corruption within its ranks.

The excerpt of Kean's opinion article:

Children's money

Percy Kean
Wednesday, October 21, 2009

IT'S crucial the International Rugby Board and the Government of the day step in to again steer Fiji rugby out of the trouble waters it has found itself in.

No, not to clean up the Fiji Rugby Union, dismiss its Board the FRU president Ro Filipe Tuisawau labelled as practising double standards, or even help board chairman Viliame Gavoka shame the devil and tell the truth why all of a sudden acting chief executive Keni Dakuidreketi is indispensable to rugby.

We'll highlight more on that tomorrow plus how the vanua politics used its connections to vote for the FRU board members. So make sure you get a copy unless you want tomorrow's news today.

Today we delve on constructive issues to see rugby's progress.

That's reason enough key stakeholders -- the IRB provides more funds and ensures the directors run FRU in accordance with principles of corporate good governance and discipline and the state can flex it's muscles so local authorities can help the national sport come to terms with realities of professionalism.

I know the former FRU president up at Muanikau Road, who also called on the FRU Board and Dakuidreketi to step aside for the honour of rugby, will like this subject.

Let's talk about making money. Some people surely need financial assistance.

Because it is definitely a lack of finance and the Board's inability to secure funds as we have been reading that has seen the FRU fail to appoint a CEO, a marketing man etc.

FRU is a multi-million dollar business venture, as such there needs to be a CEO and experienced qualified financial controller appointed soon as possible to run the affairs of FRU and be held accountable at the end of the day.

There were a number of very prominent names that responded to the advertisement but the lack of finance was the board's defence in delaying the selection. With finance, current hardships can be overcome.

The demand now is far greater than 15 to 20 years ago and these cost money.

In a talanoa session the other week, Bruce told a work mate how money can be evil. I quipped money was not evil but it was the love of money that was the root of all evil.

It is logical and common in people's lives to make money. Economic security is basic to one's opportunity to do much in any other dimension. Other needs are not even activated until that basic need is satisfied at least minimally.

Sometimes there are apparently noble reasons given for making money, such as desire to take care of family. And these things are important. But to focus on money-making as a centre will bring about its own undoing.

Stephen Covey says money-centred people often put aside family or other priorities, assuming everyone will understand economic demands come first.

As Jim, an investor from Brisbane, said it was important that FRU upholds transparency and accountability in conducting its services, especially if and when IRB and the Government lends substantial grants .

"Because that is children's money. To help get our kids off the streets, drugs and idleness, an alternative pathway for those who are not good academically," he said. "It's a shame on educated people if they bend low and deny this to our children."

This is not the first but hopefully the last call for FRU to venture into other income generating activities to supplement grants and sponsorship.

Maybe it's an opportune time to review gambling laws and through casinos in controlled locations rugby will earn a percentage of profits and tourism is lifted to new heights.

A time for the FRU to enhance our sons and daughters marketability to the professional world by building better infrastructure or innovative measures or maybe turn its assets to generate income.

Previously the casino concept was on the table with an aim at benefiting clubs and provincial unions. Not just casinos, but lottery generally.

While holidaying in West Hampstead in London, former rugby great Pio Bosco Tikoisiva told me how in the UK the national lottery contributes generously to charity including sports. "I am told and I have heard about for some time." he said.

Take Tattslotto in Fiji for instance. One of the major reasons it was approved was the fact that Fiji rugby was one of the supposed beneficiary. Unfortunately, this did not materialise, all proceeds went to the Fiji Sports Council (that is building into a bigger story).

So, it proves that yes, it can definitely support sports associations economies. There had been plans for an international size ground, with modern lighting to attract big matches, even Super 14 games.

Discussions on this was well underway in 2006 when FRU had discussions with the current government and FSC regarding Lawaqa Park. The government was supportive but it seems the problem was with FSC agreeing to the terms FRU was negotiating; the terms FSC was offering was not very helpful.

FRU's plan for Lawaqa Park was to upgrade it to international standard with appropriate training facilities, shopping mall and building accommodation and cafeteria close by.

FRU has had discussions with the Sigatoka Town Council and the traditional landowners. There was a company ready to come in if FRU got the nod to dominate sponsorship adverts/signboard.

FRU pays a lot of money during preparations for any Fiji national team -- hotel, meals, laundry. This accommodation plan can save a lot of money and can also offer the same facilities to other touring sides (may be not international teams, but other overseas clubs).

There are teams in Australia, NZ and even Japan that usually go to some other countries during their preparations for the new season. Having them come to Fiji on training camps-cum-holiday can be an attractive proposal.

The choice of Lawaqa Park was because of the location; distance from Nadi and the availability of very good hotels in the area.

The upgrade to international standards will not only attract international matches and Super 14s but it can also allow FRU to bid to host one of the IRB 7s tournaments.

FRU cannot bid because it lacks the proper facilities.

The FSC must seriously think of the benefit this FRU proposal can offer for taking Fiji rugby to another level, it can affect the tourist arrivals in Sigatoka area and of course be good for the business houses in the area.

The benefits it can bring to the country should be reason enough for FSC to approve FRUs proposal and not to burden FRU with its (Sports Council) level of debts on Lawaqa Park.

It's also high time for every union to stop the talk and begin the walk to see Fiji rugby enjoys progress. The upgrade for grounds where major unions play should not be the responsibility of FRU, it should be the responsibility of major unions which together with other sporting bodies, should negotiate with the appropriate city/town councils for the upgrade of grounds.

After all, at the end of the day it is the council that will benefit; ground hire and local businesses from the crowd that follows the team/sport whether it is rugby, soccer.

Take Lautoka for instance, Churchill Park is the best ground in Fiji. Why? because the council has saw it fit to upgrade it. The result, most FRU international matches are been held in Lautoka. Other councils should learn from Lautoka.

Sporting teams within the council boundaries should get local businesses to be part of the game by offering sponsorship. This is where FRU can come in; to assist major unions in the art of negotiation with potential sponsors.

Another source of funds is the plan already with FRU to sell Rugby House.

Even in 2004/05 there was a plan to demolish and build a six story building with one floor to FRU and rent the rest. Talks were held with Vinod Patel who has been involved with similar projects with the Ba Provincial Council.

This approach meant that Vinod Patel builds and over the years FRU pays back and fully owns the place once payments are made. The new board that came in after 2005 had another plan.

FRU should take advantage of the location of the property and build and rent for long tern gain. It's time to talk the talk and walk the walk.

However, there maybe good reasons why these were not pursued. A sponsor (Digicel/Vodafone) may like to be part owner. Never know.

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Fiji Rugby Union- The Natadola and Yaqara Parallel.

After the win at 2009 Hong Kong sevens tournament, it appeared that everything seemed fine. Beneath the allure of triumph, an under current of childish discontentment swirled thick and fast. These self inflicted wounds of the Fiji Rugby Union, soon found its way to the local dailies.

Fiji Times article quoted from FRU Chairman, the notorious Keni Dakuidreketi.

The excerpt of F.T article:

FRU condemns its president
Friday, April 03, 2009

Update: 3:44PM THE FIJI Rugby Union has strongly condemned its president, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, for his public statements on the ongoing review of the organisation.

"The Board feels the FRU President has no mandate under the constitution of the FRU to be publicly issuing press statements on matters relating to its operation," said FRU chairman Keni Dakuidreketi, who added that such a display by Ro Filipe was "very immature behaviour unworthy of the position".

"If he has the FRU at heart, he should be dealing with those that are constitutionally mandated to deal with it," he said.

The Fiji Times article, portrayed a one dimensional interview with Dakuidreketi and did not bother (as usual) to balance the article with the other views. The Fiji Live article, by comparison quoted from both sides of the debate.

The excerpt of F.L article:

Fiji rugby chiefs at loggerheads April 03, 2009

All is not well at the Fiji Rugby Union House in Suva hours from the start of the Adelaide 7s in Australia tonight.With Fiji savouring the victory feat at Hong Kong last week and expectation of more glory this weekend, the FRU chairman Keni Dakuidreketi is having a war of words with his president Ro Filipe Tuisawau over the findings of the Fiji Review team that is investigating the operations of the FRU.

Tuisawau claimed the review is calling for an investigation into the FRU coffers.This angered Dakuidreketi who claimed that his president is stepping out of line.“The FRU Board condemns the manner in which it’s President, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has been making public utterances about the internal affairs of the FRU.

The President has no mandate under the constitution of the FRU to be publicly issuing press statements on matters relating to its operation,” Dakuidreketi said in a statement this afternoon. “If the President truly has the FRU at heart, he would be working with the Board and not acting against it. The President is displaying very immature behaviour unworthy of the position.

Public grandstanding and point scoring will not solve anything,” Dakuidreketi added. Ro Filipe replied saying Dakuidreketi should step down because he has guided Fiji rugby to a different direction.“The only comment I can make is that Keni has made more immature comments than me and it is him who should step down,” Ro Filipe added. “Most of his actions and comments bring disrepute to FRU.

A lot of sponsors are waiting for the AGM outcome. [Dakuidreketi] tried to derail the review by questioning the constitutionality of the Special General Meeting which authorised the review. I think it’s very important that unions are aware of the issues coming out of the review and that's why I am airing them.”He said the Hong Kong 7s win should not be a band-aid over the operations of the FRU.

“On communications with the Board, they ceased informing me of Board meetings since July 2008. Where is the sincerity in that?”“I will not step down but will leave everything to the Council to decide at the AGM. For too long the culture of silence has prevailed and its time for the unions to come out and speak more forthrightly at the AGM.

Its also time for an independent analysis to come out rather than the normal Annual Report and motions which are hardly actioned on and followed up,” Tuisawau continued.“No one is hiding anything as our accounts are independently audited and the review which started off as a process and systems review has now, according to Tuisawau, become an investigation,” Dakuidreketi continued.“The President should re-read the constitution and get to terms with his role.

If he doesn’t like the President’s role, as provided for in the constitution, the noble thing to do is to step down. His actions are bringing the FRU into disrepute and are unbecoming of someone who ought to be regarded as a figurehead of the Union.”Ro Filipe is the head of the FRU review team set up to investigate the operations of the FRU after the sacking of 7s icon Waisale Serevi as the Fiji 7s coach.

Fijilive

Dakuidreketi had infuriated many Fiji rugby fans for having a hand in terminating the coaching duties of legendary Sevens icon, Waisale Serevi. Adding insult to injury, was Dakuidreketi's faux pas reaction to Fiji's loss in the recent Dubai leg of the IRB Sevens circuit; the contest for the World Cup.
A forum on a Fiji social networking site (My Fiji Friends.com) had a thread, with embittered reactions to Dakuidreketi's comments, that defended Fiji's Dubai loss, others pointed to his micro-management role in the team's selection.

Readers of SiFM are well appraised of the dubious and venal nature of Messr Dakuidreketi and to re-fresh memories, an earlier SiFM post on Natadola and post on Yaqara describes the tainted legacy of the person.














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My Brilliant Career. (Update)

Following up on the S.i.F.M post titled "7 Seven Sins of NLTB" - apparently there has been some developments regarding the sins from the Teflon coated executive of APRIL, Keni Dakuidreketi.

This case raises serious questions into the integrity of the entire criminal justice system in Fiji pre-2006 coup. Among them, Why didn't Natadola raise red flags in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID)of the Fiji Police? Surely, someone had an idea of the alleged impropriety and illegalities in the dealings of Dakuidreketi.

It appears that Dakuidreketi was recently suspended from the board of Native Lands Trust Board (NLTB) for questionable dealings, as reported by Fiji Times article and confirmed by Fiji Live article.

Reactions to the story was captured on the Fiji Times web site and readers who commented on the particular story, were overwhelmingly scathing of Dakuidreketi's series of alleged actions, which was tainted with corporate malfeasance.

This is the excerpt:

Dakuidreketi suspended

Fiji Times
Wednesday, June 27, 2007

INTERIM Fijian Affairs Minister Ratu Epeli Ganilau has suspended Native Lands Trust Board member Keni Dakuidreketi after the independant investigation team into Fijian institutions cited certain allegations against him.

In his letter dated June 25, Ratu Epeli wrote to Mr Dakuidreketi stating the allegations surfaced over his role and capacity as a member of the NLTB board, chairman and director of Viti Development Company Limited and director of Pacific Connex.

"In view of these rather unfortunate circumstances, it would not be prudent if you were to continue to sit on the board of NLTB," the letter stated.

"Therefore in the interest of the NLTB and as chairperson of the Fijian Affairs Board, I am suspending your FAB membership of the NLTB board pending the outcome of the investigations into these allegations."

Mr Dakuidreketi confirmed receiving the letter yesterday but described the wording as 'generic' as it talked about allegations. "They are citing certain allegations which I do not know therefore I cannot comment yet," he said.

"Anyway, I am meeting the minister tomorrow and hope to discuss the matter with him."

Mr Dakuidreketi said his position as chairman of VDCL was an appointment sanctioned by the NLTB board.

Both suspended general manager of the NLTB, Kalivati Bakani and IT manager Mojito Mua were handed their termination letters citing 'no cause' recently by Ratu Epeli last week.

Fiji Village article quoted Dakuidreketi saying, "He has nothing to hide". Dakuidreketi met with Interim Minister of Fijian Affairs Board, Epeli Ganilau regarding the suspension letter he received, labeling its contents as "generic".

Fiji Times article reports that Ganilau and Dakuidreketi had a "fruitful" meeting.

This is the excerpt:

We had a good talk: Ganilau
Fiji Times
Thursday, June 28, 2007

INTERIM Fijian Affairs minister Ratu Epeli Ganilau said his meeting with suspended Native Lands Trust Board member Keni Dakuidreketi yesterday was fruitful.

[Ganilau]said they discussed issues stated in the suspension letter which was sent to Mr Dakuidreketi on Tuesday.

"It was a good meeting and I managed to explain the reasons of the letter and what was required from it," [Ganilau] said.

Mr Dakuidreketi agreed the meeting was "a good one" and they had discussed issues which were "well articulated". "There are certain allegations and I will have to look at answering these allegations but I am satisfied with the meeting," [Dakuidreketi] said.

On Tuesday, Ratu Epeli suspended Mr Dakuidreketi after the independent investigation team into Fijian institutions brought up allegations against him.

In his letter dated June 25, Ratu Epeli told Mr Dakuidreketi that the allegations surfaced over his role and capacity as a member of the NLTB board, chairman and director of Viti Development Company Limited and director of Pacific Connex. "In view of these rather unfortunate circumstances, it would not be prudent if you were to continue to sit on the board of NLTB," the letter stated.

"Therefore in the interest of the NLTB and as chairperson of the Fijian Affairs Board, I am suspending your FAB membership of the NLTB Board pending the outcome of the investigations into these allegations."

Mr Dakuidreketi described the wording as "generic", on Tuesday as it talked about allegations. "They are citing certain allegations which I do not know therefore I cannot comment on yet," he had said. Mr Dakuidreketi was also a central figure in the Natadola resort project in Nadroga.

Another Fiji Times article reports that, Interim FAB Minister has received the report from the NLTB investigative committee, which will be tabled in the next NLTB Board meeting. It is unclear if Dakuidreketi will be formally charged anytime soon, however S.i.F.M remains optimistic that the case will be heard in court.

Island Business article covers the initial investigations into APRIL and Natadola project, which began to unravel this web of dubious deals.
French born APRIL co-principal, Louis Gerard Saliot was confronted with his criminal past which he failed to declare on his application for an Foreign Investor License and subsequently APRIL's license was suspended, throwing the entire million dollar project into dire straits. It is interesting to note that, Fiji Trade & Investment Board (FTIB) which issued the Foreign Investor License had undertaken background investigations into Saliot, according to their website.

Unfortunately, this background check by FTIB, forgot to compare notes with Interpol and this error contributed to the present financial quagmire at Natadola. One would hope that the system of background checks has been rectified, but time will tell.

Natadola Development Limited
Posted: Wednesday 28 March, 2007

Natadola Development Limited was granted approval on 26 October 1995 to develop the proposed Natadola Hotel and Tourism Development. The shareholders in the venture were the AD Group Asia/Pacific and Gerard Saliot.

The application went through the investment approval regime which existed at that time where the investment application form did not require an investor to make a declaration whether he had a criminal record or had been declared bankrupt. However, as a safeguard, the Bureau required investors at that time to submit a bank reference.

Mr. Saliot submitted a bank reference, which prompted the Bureau to undertake a due diligence with Dunn and Brad Street. The exercise did not produce any adverse findings on Mr. Saliot’s business conduct and his bank advised that he had maintained a proper current saving account with the Hong Kong Bank.

Based on this finding, the Bureau submitted the proposal for approval, which received Ministerial endorsement in 1999.

On 10th August, 2004 APRIL Fiji’s accountant’s applied for a change in the group’s structure, which saw the formation of Natadola Land Holdings Limited (NLKH). In this new venture, Fiji National Provident Fund owned 51% of the shares and Natadola Marine Resort Limited the remaining 49%. It was on this same application, where one of the director’s declared that none of the shareholders were undischarged bankrupt.


Based on the information provided in the application form, on 23 August 2004 APRIL Fiji was issued with a foreign investment registration certificate to undertake consultancy services for the development and management of Natadola Integrated Resort Development by Natadola Holdings Limited.

On 6th October, 2005 Natadola Marine Resort Limited’s accountants advised FTIB of a change in company name and shareholding. The new name of the company is Hotel Property Pacific Limited. Under the new shareholding structure, Euro Asia Management Limited owns 95% of the shares and Euro Pacific Trade and Invest Propriety Limited own the remaining 5%.

The Bureau strongly views that any lending agency that lends out funds to an investor or companies should carry out their due diligence on the investors and FNPF is no exception. On the same note other government agencies should have carried out their own due diligence before granting approvals/licences etc. Investor screening is a responsibility of all agencies giving approvals.

Given the latest findings on Mr Saliot, the Bureau will now go through the process of reviewing the registrations granted to the NRML and APRIL. The relevant government agencies will be advised accordingly.

Sainiana Waqainabete
Senior Public Relations Officer

Factions of native landowners had threatened to withdraw their land, prompting the Interim Minister to appease their concerns with an official visit and even dangled out equities into the Tourism project, in exchange for the landowner's approval. Fiji Live article reported that, Interim FAB Minister urged the landowning faction of four tribes, out of the total seven; to think of their children's future.

Think of future generation: Ratu Epeli
Monday June 25, 2007

Fiji’s interim Fijian Affairs minister Ratu Epeli Ganilau says Natadola landowners should think of their future generation by making choices that will ensure the development of their land.

Speaking to landowners last week, Ratu Epeli said there is nothing better than investing for future generations.

His advice follows comments by spokesman for the Vanua O Nahoqo at Natadola, Ratu Osea Gavidi, that landowners will be taking their land back from the developers of Natadola Bay Resort and re-investing it for other use.

Ratu Osea said the allegiance of landowners no longer rests with the developers of the resort after they felt they had been mistreated. “There are certain issues that need to be resolved by the landowners and the developers but right now we are thinking of canceling the land lease which was issued to them.”

“By doing this we are able to do something on our land and we are thinking of leasing it to someone else,” Ratu Osea said.

Ratu Epeli however said landowners need to be consulted on such matters.

Fijilive

The final decision from this native faction with regards to the future of Natadola project, is pending. This faction is represented by Osea Gavidi, a colorful character from the same province of Nadroga. According to a Fiji Live article, it is same Gavidi who had attempted to set up an indigenous owned commercial bank with a $6 Billion donation from a fictional organization named: Office of International Treasury Control (OITC).

Former Senator, Dr Atu-Emberson Bain's speech regarding the 2002 Bill to amend the Native Land Act and Native Land Trust Act, is perhaps an impartial look at NLTB's role and underscores the smoke and mirrors behind this amendment in legislation, spearheaded by the SDL Government.



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Icons of Disrepute.

Radio Fiji article covers the press conference by APRIL Development's repesentatives, who are struggling to remove the stigma of misappropriation, levied by the new board of Fiji National Provident Fund. APRIL's website is also interesting, simply because Natadola Marine Resort, is the first ever project undertaken by APRIL, which was addressed by an earlier posting by S.i.F.M, highlighting the relative infancy of APRIL in resort construction. Furthermore, APRIL Development's listed services is as follows:

APRIL Development offers a complete range of development and management services including:

General Management

* Development Brief
* Development Program
* Development Cost
* Revenue Budget
* Finance / Commercial Assessment
* Concept Design
* Conditions of Contract
* Project Co-ordination
* Reporting
* Human Resources

Marketing and Sales Management

* Promotion and Public Relations
* Marketing Strategy and Programs
* Sales Management


Financial Management

* Budgeting
* Cost Evaluation
* Cost Control
* Cash Flow Monitoring

Note: Engineering Project Management is NOT included. Also missing, is the portfolio of other projects which APRIL was previously engaged in, as a verifiable track record of their capacity to handle a project of this magnitude and cost.

This video (below)from Youtube shows the pristine Natadola coastline prior to the ill-fated construction project.


The Natadola Marine Resort Project also demonstrates the underhand negotiations used by Native Lands Trust Board(NLTB) to secure approval from landowners; as well as the lack of adequate compensation given to native landowners, in terms of top soil removal, or address outstanding issues of royalties and consent.



Even NLTB's Deputy General Manager acknowledged in a Fiji TV interview, that disagreements between factions of native landowners, is a fairly common occurence. The NLTB representative did not elaborate or confirm whether the Native Lands Trust Board was actively preying on this division in inter-tribal conflicts, to facilitate or manufacture the consent of landowners, for large projects such as Natadola.

This is an excerpt from a Fiji Sun article:

Tribes fight over FNPF project

By Cheerieann Wilson

Natadola landowners have claimed that Ratu Osea Gavidi does not represent their interests in the Fiji National Provident Fund resort project.Turaga Ni Yavusa Leweitahalulu, Ratu Ilami Nabiau told the Fiji Sun yesterday, the landowners had terminated Ratu Osea’s service as their spokesman in 2000.“He is from the chiefly family in Cuvu. He does not own any strip or piece of land in Natadola,” he said.“As the project progressed we discovered problems because FNPF had released $60 million.

APRIL used $15m of that and landowners have not been paid the full amount of $1m, we are still owed money since the project started two years ago.”However, Ratu Osea maintained last night that he is their representative, as he was traditionally approached with a tabua (whales tooth).“No one has presented me with another tabua to say that I was out.

I have the support of the seven mataqalis and Ratu Ilami is one that does not think of the big picture.“He is one of those that are trying to split up the vanua and he has not attended the meeting here in Suva,” Ratu Osea said.Ratu Ilami said Ratu Osea should have met with the landowners in the village. They should have called for the meeting here in the village.

They should have at least come here and meet with the owners and explain what they want to do, if they wanted us to sign papers or make changes, at least come here to us and explain the allegations that have been made against them.”Ratu Ilami indicated that only three yavusas were represented at the meeting with the Interim Minister for Fijian Affairs Ratu Epeli Ganilau yesterday; yavusa Ketenamasi - Ratu Timoci Kulikata; yavusa Tacini - Napolioni Naloga; yavusa Esiga - Inoke Nainunu.

He claimed that the of the four yavusas of Lewaitahalulu, Nalotawa, Burenitu and Koronani did not attend.Ratu Osea claimed that he has the support of the seven yavusas along with the TuiNahoqo, Ratu Timoci Kolikata.These people take their advise from Apisai Tora and Peniasi Kunatuba who is in jail now.” When contacted Mr Tora said he will make a comment today.Yavusa Esiga member Bati Qainiuri said Ratu Osea came into the picture of the Natadola project site because of his involvement with APRIL.

“He will bribe and will take advantage of other landowners that are not educated enough. He is not the owner of the mataqali land. He says that he called a meeting with all landowners last night (Monday night) then how come we were not involved,” he asked.Ratu Osea said if others wanted to say something, they should first seek the mandate of the vanua first.“We are asking for a few more days to allow the mataqali landowners to meet with APRIL and then decide on its future in the project and the Minister has said he will go back and speak with the board.“I blame Felix Anthony for everything that has happened.

I wrote to him on March 9 and 15 to seek his assurance that any decision on Natadola or APRIL should be put on hold until after APRIL met with the landowners.“On March 5, I went to the village with Mosese Nakabea and Jo Sadole who told villagers that another engineer would handle the project. The village community chairman Jonetani Saukuru wrote to Mr Anthony to plead with FNPF not to make any decisions on Natadola or APRIL.“He did not respect the plea from the vanua. He has disrespected the vanua.

I spoke with Mr Anthony on March 15 and he assured me on the phone that no decision would be made yet on Natadola and yet later that day we saw the announcement on TV. He made the announcement that Thursday and flew out of the country for 10 days“We are waiting for him to return.

He has failed to respect the vanua Nahogo.”Meanwhile, APRIL Natadola project director, Keni Dakuidreketi maintained that APRIL is still the manager and developer of the resort.“There has been no legal termination of our contract. There are agreed dispute provisions that are being ignored.

This is very bad for the investment climate,” he said. Mr Dakuidreketi said allegations about construction problems at Natadola were misrepresented. He said the Holmes Consulting Group is a leading NZ firm of structural engineers and had conducted a detailed review of the design of the resort’s InterContinental hotel, now under construction.

“These followed issues that were raised by COTEBA, as the Natadola project manager. “These issues were not raised by HLK Jacob as it claimed. The Holmes review confirmed that the InterContinental design complied with the relevant NZ codes of practice and by reference, to the National Building Code of Fiji.”Mr Dakuidreketi said a specific technical approach had been used to minimise earthquake damage.

(Above image: Artist impression of Natadola project)


(Above image: First phase of earth movement at Natadola)




(Above image: Building structure emerges at Natadola)

This is the excerpt of the Radio Fiji article:

There are claims that the $140 million dollars Natadola Hotel Project is now in jeopardy with most of the work having ground to a halt.

Today Asia Pacific Resort International Limited, APRIL publicly defended itself against pressure from the Fiji National Provident Fund to cancel its contract as project managers.

Early this month Natadola Bay Resort Limited chairman Felix Anthony said they were not satisfied with APRIL’s performance, saying the project was 24-weeks behind schedule and that the project lacked accountability.

But APRIL project manager Keni Dakuidreketi says the Fund’s decisions have been disastrous for the project.

“They have effectively halted most of the work and thrown the project into chaos. The delays caused are adding to costs. Legal arrangements with consultants and contractors have been breached and payments to them are in default. They are not being remunerated in accordance with their contracts.” said Dakuidreketi.

Dakuidreketi says a number of forces and issues are at play in the campaign against them.

“Some of these may be political, others connected to commercial rivalry, ambition and resentment. We repeat APRIL rejects allegations against it. It is a reputable company, committed to properly meeting its responsibilities at Natadola. It abides by its contractual obligations and takes seriously the professional and proper performance of those obligations. We stress we practice accountability in the expenditure of funds.”

It also appears that another director of APRIL Development, Berenado Vunibobo(pictured above[R]) has skeletons in his closet. Vunibobo, a former former Fiji Government Minister was named by former Fiji Public Prosecutor, Peter Ridgeway, in a Radio N.Z article, as being present during a meeting at Fiji Parliament, subsequent to the 2000 coup.

This is the excerpt of Radio NZ article:

Treason trial prosecutor again names prominent Fiji people allegedly involved in 2000 coup

Posted at 23:55 on 09 March, 2003 UTC

The names of prominent Fiji people have again featured in the treason trial of coup accomplices, Josefa Nata and Timoci Silatolu.

The state prosecutor, Perter Ridgeway, named them in his summing up of the trial

He said the lands minister, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the deputy speaker of parliament Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, the high commissioner to Papua New Guinea Ratu Inoke Kubuabloa, the former finance minister Berenado Vunibobo, the former general manager of the Native Lands Trust Board Maika Qarikau as well as George Speight and his father were among those present at a meeting in parliament soon after the coup.

Mr Ridgeway said the meeting assigned Nata to draft decrees and abolish the constitution, assisted by Ratu Inoke Kubuabola who was then the opposition leader.

Mr Ridgeway said Nata had lied and deceived the court when he claimed that he was in parliament to secure the release of the hostages. The prosecutor said video evidence showed Nata looking relaxed and chewing gum as George Speight threatened the lives of the hostages.

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Natadola Project -Grapes of Wrath Or Sour Grapes

The 'landowner' factor has catapulted the Natadola Resort project well under the official spot light for several major inconsistencies, both in Engineering and Financial accountability.

The Natadola Resort project is still simmering in the headlines, by way of a Fiji Times report, which described threats of repossession, made by the landowners of the Natadola real estate. It appears that the landowners were advised by Osea Gavidi, of Viti Levu Resource Owners Association.

This is a micro excerpt of Fiji Times article:

FNPF wrong, say tribes

Fiji Times Wednesday, March 21, 2007

A GROUP of landowners has hit out at the Fiji National Provident Fund for discrediting the work done by Asia Pacific Resort International Ltd developers of the $180million resort at Natadola.

The landowners are from seven yavusa, 12 mataqali and 18 tokatoka of the vanua o Nasoqo in Nadroga who own the land on which the resort is being constructed. Their chief is the Tui Nasoqo Ratu Timoci Kolikata.

Speaking on behalf of the landowners, advisor Ratu Osea Gavidi said a delegation yesterday discussed the matter with interim Fijian Affairs minister Ratu Epeli Ganilau.

He said they had asked the interim minister to intervene and stop the FNPF making unilateral decisions on APRIL and director Gerard Saliot without consulting the landowners.

He said the delegation was shocked at the way in which FNPF was handling the matter because the people held the project dear to their hearts since all the land at Natadola was committed to the project.

"He (Ratu Epeli) has pledged to approach FNPF over the matter as the project spans 1145 acres of Native land. The vanua wants equity in the project," Ratu Osea said.

Ratu Epeli could not be reached for a comment.

The landowners last night met with Mr Saliot and APRIL officials. Ratu Osea said the matter would be further discussed with the Native Lands Trust Board today. NLTB spokesman Semi Tabakanalagi confirmed the land in question belonged to the seven yavusa.

Ironically, it is the same Gavidi, who seemed to be the mouth piece to a fraudulent scheme with the fictional bank O.I.T.C last year, claiming that a certain foreign investor was willing to donate US$6 Billion to establish a indigenous operated banking enterprise in Fiji, which was reported by a Fiji Village article.

This is the excerpt of the FV article:

Media chased from MOU signing
By fijivillage
Mar 3, 2006, 17:57


Members of the media were chased out after the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Office of the International Treasury Control and the Viti Land and Resource Owners today.

The press conference with foreign national Dr. keith Scott who claims to be the Head of Cabinet of OITC was abruptly terminated after specific questions regarding the validity of the 6 billion dollars being offered by the company to set up a commercial bank was brought up.

Questions on when and how the initial 3.8 billion would come through were left half answered by Dr. Scott after front man for the resource owners Masi Kaumaitotoya called for security to escort the media out.

Doctor Scott also revealed at the Bose Ni Turaga earlier this week that he would transfer the first payment of $3.8 billion by yesterday afternoon. However nothing has eventuated since the announcement.

When questioned earlier today on why the transfer was not done, Resource Owners Association President, Ratu Osea Gavidi said there is no bank account in Fiji that can hold $3.8 billion.

In the MOU, 50% is to be funded by the OITC and the other 50% is to be provided by the landowners who are expected to use their land and resources as monetary value.

This afternoon, members of the media who were at the press conference were handed a copy of the MOU which contains a signature under the name Dr. Ray. C. Dam. The document under the OITC header also shows its offices based in Malaysia, Netherlands, USA, Australia and Ecuador, however no information on the company or Dr. Dam is available at this stage.

The MOU states that OITC will provide total 2.805 billion dollars for an acquisition of trucks and timber milling plant and equipment for landowners, development of a Community Aged Center, development of community owned tourist and resort centre construction of modern prisons for Fiji and reforestation programme through Triunion investment Holding company and the resource owners association.

Meanwhile, Fiji Police are now seeking the assistance of their overseas counterparts to try and establish the authenticity of the claims being made by foreign national Dr. Keith Scott and the background of his company called OITC.

Director CID Joe Rasiga has confirmed with Legend FM news that a weeks search for information on Dr. Scott and OITC has been fruitless and now Interpol has been called in.

The issue of landowners choosing which company as their preferred project managers, for a construction site on their land is nothing more than obstructive hair splitting.

Although, the land rightfully belongs to Natadola; the concerns of the project financiers (FNPF) supersedes those petty issues of land ownership. Once the approval was given by the Natadola landowners for this particular project, it is counter-productive for the landowners to choose which building contractor or project manager is more favorable. To micro-manage which crane operator or which Electrician should take their job because another does not meet their liking is a complete mockery of indigenous affairs. Those decisions are well out of their jurisdiction of landowners; once their approval for the project is given.

FNPF's subsequent decision would be crucial, because it does not want the construction quality to be compromised, furthermore it wants a fair return for their investment, by ensuring those engineering standards remain as, a degree of excellence.

Gavidi, appears to be riding on the band wagon of cultural insensitivity; that inextricably could frustrate the project's major financier. Gavidi's ignorance of the fundamentals of Engineering standards and the contractual aspects from FNPF's standpoint could accelerate that level of frustration.

FNPF could respond by withdrawing financial backing and terminating the project altogether, if the threats by landowners are taken seriously. Without capital drawn from Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), Natadola would only be a well-frequented beach. Money changes those perceptions, as rapidly as a blink of an eye.

APRIL claims rival company raided office

Fiji Live-Monday March 19, 2007
Sacked project managers of the multi million-dollar Natadola Project, Asia Pacific Resort International Limited (APRIL) are claiming their replacements tried to forcibly remove documents from the company's offices.

APRIL's project director Keni Dakuidreketi alleges that representatives from local engineering consultants HLK Jacob "tried to remove files" on the Natadola Project but were told leave by APRIL staff.

However, HLK Jacob director Brian Jacob has categorically denied any involvement by his staff saying it was not his company's responsibility to remove documents from APRIL. He said it was not his staff but members of the Natadola Bay Resort Ltd (NBRL) that tried to enter APRIL's offices.

Jacob said the Natadola Project is currently under investigations and the only people that can have access to the documents are the fraud investigators and his company was in no way involved.

Dakuidreketi said no one would be allowed to enter APRIL premises without a court order. He also said APRIL was concerned about the alleged "close relationship" between HLK Jacob and Northern Projects Fiji, which is the building contractor for the first phase of the Natadola Project.

Northern Projects Fiji representatives referred all questions to the NBRL that last week fired APRIL and Natadola's construction managers COTEBA citing non-performance.
NBRL chairman Felix Anthony said last week that while $60 million of the projected $140 million has been spent on Natadola to date, only 10 per cent of work has been completed with the project late by 24 weeks.

He said that since they were hired in mid-2004, NBRL has paid APRIL $8 million in management frees to oversee the project, but have been unsatisfied with the results.
Fijilive

One niggling matter to comprehend is that, how was APRIL Development awarded the role as construction project manager in the first place, especially when the main representative of APRIL-Messr Keni Dakuidreketi is not qualified as a Civil Engineer nor does he or APRIL have any experience whatsover in structural design or in major building construction.

By virtue of these facts, it is mind boggling how APRIL could have the knowledge or experience as a construction project manager (a specialized field in Civil Engineering) to justify the exorbitant management fees it charged.

This is Dakuidreketi's CV posted on the website for Yaqara Group Ltd .

Director
Keni Dakuidreketi
Fijian
B App Sc (Prop Mgmt) Aust.

As Managing Director and founder of Rolle Hillier Parker - Fiji since 1990 (world wide associated with Hillier Parker & ONCOR Group of Companies), Keni has had extensive property experience with coordination and financing large scale property developments in Fiji. From 1984 - 1987 he was the Estate Officer with the Fiji Native Land Trust Board and worked as Director of Valuation for Harrison Grierson Consultants for 3 years.

He is Chairman of Fiji Rugby Union, Chairman of the Lands Transport Authority, a Board Member of the Housing Trust Authority, the Native Lands Trust Board and Natadola Marine Resort Ltd and sits on a number of other high profile community boards and organisations. Keni was a member of the Interim Civilian Administration and was appointed Minister of Youth, Sports and Employment Opportunities. Keni is a principal and runs a successful business in real estate management and consultancy as well as a management consultancy company.

Consulting Engineers appointed by FNPF have accused the former Natadola Resort project manager of substandard work and that the existing building designs within Natadola project; do to meet the New Zealand building code, which Fiji had adopted.

Threat to stop FNPF project-
Firm defends contract amid landowner demands

By CHEERIEANN WILSON
Fiji Sun.

Natadola landowners yesterday warned the Fiji National Provident Fund that they would terminate leases in the multi-million-dollar hotel project if it fails to reinstate sacked project manager, Asia Pacific Resorts International. Viti Landowners and Resource Owners Association interim president Ratu Osea Gavidi said 18 landowning clans of Natadola met last night to discuss the removal of APRIL, which had breached an earlier agreement with the initial developers. He said members of the tokatoka would not allow any company appointed to replace APRIL into Natadola.

FNPF board member Daniel Urai said APRIL was removed by legislation. “The issue of APRIL's termination is not determined by the FNPF. FTIB (Fiji Trades and Investment Board) cancelled APRIL's licence because it failed to declare previous bankruptcy and fraudulent convictions. APRIL was removed through legislation,” he said last night.

APRIL's replacement, HLK Jacob Limited, yesterday revealed that APRIL had approved its appointment by former construction manager COTEBA last August for supervisory structural services for the project. “We were appointed to this with APRIL’s approval from a shortlist of four local engineers on the basis of our track record in major projects. Obviously, APRIL had no objection at that stage, including independence issues, otherwise we would not have been appointed,” it said in a statement.

HLK Jacob stated that it uncovered a lot of discrepancies in the structural design in regards to the compliance with Fiji and New Zealand building codes.
“COTEBA and APRIL were notified of this issue in October last year – we have records of all these correspondences. We were strongly of the opinion that the structures were not designed to the NZ code as required under the Fiji Building Code,” it added.

HLK Jacob stated that no action was taken until January this year when engineer, Holmes Group, was appointed on behalf of the project structural engineer to review the design. Holmes Group agreed the design was not in full compliance with the NZ Earthquake Code and recommended a number of remedial works.

Holmes Group also recommended that any major deviations from earthquake codes could be handled if NBRL accepted an alternative design solution. Holmes Group, however, would not take any responsibility for any of its recommendations. HLK Jacob then resigned on January 23, this year, because it did not believe that the approach taken by APRIL and COTEBA to downplay the matter was in the best interest of FNPF and NBRL. “We were approached three days later by the FNPF board asking reasons for our sudden resignation. And we outlined our reasons to them,” it said.

HLK Jacob, in a letter to COTEBA Limited in January, stated that it was left with no choice but to resign as structural engineer because:

Structural design codes for the project had not been addressed by the structure engineers; and It has been over three months since the issue was raised but work continued without any resolution.

FNPF engaged HLK Jacob to act as its representative and technical adviser. “Our commission was to look in the technical affairs of the project. A series of correspondence were sent to APRIL/ COTEBA/ NPF for their response to the delays, cost variations, lack of progress and other critical issues,” the company said. “We received the responses and this was presented to the FNPF board and management.

Our brief was to put forward all the facts and opinion on cause. We, at no time, recommended their removal. “Our appointment as project/ construction managers is only an interim one at this stage until NBRL resolves how it intends to move forward.”

HLK Jacob director Sanjay Kaba last night denied claims by APRIL project director Keni Dakuidreketi that its representatives tried to enter the offices of APRIL at Natadola.“We understand that they tried to remove files. Our staff said HLK Jacob Ltd had tried to forcibly enter the offices of APRIL at Natadola,” Mr Dakuidreketi said.

Mr Kaba said the matter was between the FNPF and the landowners. Mr Dakuidreketi said in a television interview that FNPF did not consult with APRIL but instead obtained an opinion of the progress of the project from a contractor. He revealed that FNPF met APRIL and had said that it would need to review the MOU that had earlier been agreed to. However, APRIL was caught by surprise hours later when FNPF announced that it had been fired.

Efforts by APRIL Developments to stop the deluge of negative publicity with repeated media appearances was mediocre at best and could not distract the public from serious allegations of malpractice, recently publicized by the new board of Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF)-the project's major financial backer.

Dakuidreketi responded in a Fiji Times article:

Mr Dakuidreketi said the Holmes Consulting Group, a leading New Zealand firm of structural engineers, had conducted a detailed review of the design of the resort's InterContinental hotel. This followed issues raised by COTEBA as the Natadola project construction manager. The issues were not raised by HLK Jacob as claimed, said Mr Dakuidreketi.

The Holmes review confirmed that the InterContinental design complied with the relevant New Zealand codes of practice and by reference, to the National Building Code of Fiji, [Dakuidreketi] said.

"A specific technical approach had been used to minimise earthquake damage as a few minor modifications were suggested by Holmes Consulting to lessen the risk of damage," Mr Dakuidreketi said.

"The cost of these was expected to be small and well worth the investment. These modifications only apply to work that is still to be done. It is not necessary to demolish large parts of work already completed as proposed by HLK Jacob."

Burchill VDM Pty Ltd, the consulting engineer for the hotel, has also endorsed the construction. Mr Dakuidreketi said. Burchill VDM is a leading Australia-based urban development consultancy and has worked on many major tourism projects.

Mr Dakuidreketi said HLK Jacobs favoured a much more expensive and unnecessary option to deal with the minor modifications required. "That, in itself, raises questions about HLK Jacob's approach. It is quite misleading to suggest there were major design flaws. This is not the case," he said.

He said as project managers, APRIL had presented all technical reports to the Boards of Natadola Bay Resort Limited and FNPF Investment Limited (FIL). APRIL's attempts to convene a meeting of all the technical consultants involved in the project have been rejected, he said.

Louis Gerard Saliot quit last week when confronted with details of his previous convictions, said Natadola Bay Resort Limited chairman, Felix Anthony yesterday.

Although, Burchill VDM Pty Ltd is a reputable company in Construction Management; arguably one would point out that, HLK Jacob would be more appraised about New Zealand's building code than Burchill, since it is a New Zealand company and has completed more projects in New Zealand than Burchill.

One wonders how APRIL became the middle-man in this million dollar project at Natadola. APRIL's use of consultancy Engineers, Burchill is equally an issue, since APRIL branded itself as project manager in construction; albeit with no qualified Engineers in their employment, nor experience to justify their excessive management fees.

It seems abundantly clear that, APRIL conveniently sub-contracted out Engineering consultancy to Burchill, but kept the lions share of the fees. This raises more questions like:

1. Why didn't Burchill itself become the principal project manager, rather than APRIL?

2. Did APRIL get the million dollar project, because Dakuidreketi was also a Board member of Native Lands Trust Board?

As the major funder for the project Fiji National Provident Fund(FNPF) was well within their rights to ask for an independent evaluation of the project. It is nothing short of prudent financial reasoning, for FNPF to get 3rd party analysis ensuring that works rendered, were made according to engineering specifications, entailed under New Zealand's building code.

HLK Jacob, a New Zealand company with major projects under its wing, was then acquired by FNPF to review the project and found some major discrepancies within the design and issued a work stoppage order.




Those discrepancies is disputed by APRIL Development's point man:

"Mr Dakuidreketi said HLK Jacobs favoured a much more expensive and unnecessary option to deal with the minor modifications required. "That, in itself, raises questions about HLK Jacob's approach. It is quite misleading to suggest there were major design flaws. This is not the case," [Dakuidreketi] said".

Of course, Dakuidreketi was ill qualified and out of his depth to make that crucial call. HLK Jacob was exceedingly knowledgable about those concerns, since a structural failure would damage the mechanical integrity of the entire project, as well as their own repuatation as Consultant Engineers.

It well appears, as project managers APRIL (via Dakuidreketi's rationale) may have tried to minimize further costs incurring; by avoiding the structural recommendations made by HLK Jacob, without any concern for damages on the building or their reputation, since they are known merely as property managers and not construction experts.

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