World Rugby Warns of Severe Consequences if January 31, 2025 Deadline is Missed
Colombo, January 19, 2025 – The Director General of Sports, Shemal Fernando, announced the postponement of Sri Lanka Rugby’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), initially scheduled for January 21, 2025. The decision, detailed in a letter dated January 18, 2025, follows complaints raised by key stakeholders, including Asia Rugby, regarding constitutional and electoral issues.
Fernando highlighted in the letter that concerns, including a communication from the President of Asia Rugby on January 8, 2025, prompted the Hon. Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports to appoint a committee to investigate the matters. The inquiries focus on the implementation of amendments to the Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) Constitution and the upcoming elections.
World Rugby Sets January 31 Deadline
Adding urgency to the situation, World Rugby had extended its deadline to January 31, 2025, for Sri Lanka Rugby to finalize the AGM, elections, and constitutional amendments. Failure to meet this deadline could lead to severe repercussions for Sri Lanka Rugby, including potential sanctions or suspension by World Rugby.
In his letter, Fernando assured stakeholders that actions following the investigation will be conducted in consultation with the Hon. Attorney General of Sri Lanka, the President of World Rugby, the President of Asia Rugby, and other key parties. These steps will strictly adhere to the Sports Act No. 25 of 1973 and related regulations to protect the integrity of Sri Lanka Rugby.
AGM Postponement and Repercussions
The AGM has been postponed under powers vested by the Sports Act until the investigation is complete. This decision aims to ensure transparency and proper governance in Sri Lanka Rugby’s operations. Fernando acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the postponement but emphasized the importance of resolving the issues comprehensively.
Stakeholders Notified
The notification has been distributed to a broad range of stakeholders, including the Hon. Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, World Rugby, Asia Rugby, provincial rugby unions, schools rugby associations, universities sports associations, rugby referees, “A” division rugby clubs, and life members of Sri Lanka Rugby.
The next two weeks are critical for Sri Lanka Rugby as it works to comply with World Rugby’s directives and avoid potentially damaging repercussions. Updates are anticipated once the committee concludes its investigation and the AGM is rescheduled.
