Francis Kean

World Rugby agrees measures to ensure no repeat of last year's Francis Kean election gaffe

Eight candidates were unveiled in May by World Rugby to contest the election for seven places on its executive committee.

Kean was nominated and proposed by the Fiji Rugby Union and seconded by the Federation Francaise de Rugby, whose president Bernard Laporte was seeking to become World Rugby’s new vice-president, a role he went on to clinch. 

Rugby's Olympics involvement under threat following World Rugby elections scandal - report

Kean was the official nominated by the Fijian Rugby Union – and seconded by France – to run for a place on World Rugby’s executive committee, but that nomination has since been withdrawn following revelations of a manslaughter conviction in 2007.

Fresh allegations of homophobia and discrimination also contributed to Kean’s demise from the global organising body’s ruling council, and that could impact whether rugby remains in the Olympics.

Fiji's Kean steps down during World Rugby investigation

Earlier World Rugby said it was investigating the claims against Francis Kean, who had been one of eight nominees for the seven positions on the influential Executive Committee.

The Sunday Times reported it had heard a recording of Kean while he was in charge of the Fiji prison service, in which the paper alleged homophobic language was used.

World Rugby said it noted the allegations and took them extremely seriously.

World Rugby launch investigation into Fiji chairman over homophobia allegations

A Sunday Times report revealed allegations of homophobia against Fiji chairman Ratu Vilikesa Bulewa Francis Kean, as well as his conviction for manslaughter in 2007, which has left the former head of the Fijian Navy under pressure to stand down.

The revelations could also spell trouble for World Rugby chairman Sir Bill Beaumont, whose bid for re-election has been backed by the FRU

Kean is also looking to secure a position on World Rugby’s executive committee, but is now expected to withdraw.