SIBF President William Lai resigns for personal reasons; Vice President Douglas Marau steps in as Acting President
The Solomon Islands Basketball Federation (SIBF) today announced that Mr. William Lai has tendered his resignation as SIBF President, effective 21st October, 2025, citing personal reasons.
SIBF expresses its sincere appreciation to Lai for his service and contributions to the sport and the basketball community for the past 22 months.
In keeping with SIBF governance arrangements, the Board confirms that Mr. Douglas Marau, current Vice President, will now assume leadership responsibilities, ensuring uninterrupted operations and delivery of the federation’s programs as Acting President.
“We respect Lai’s decision and thank him for the commitment shown to our athletes, volunteers, partners, stakeholders and the basketball community at large” said Acting President/Vice President Marau. “SIBF’s work continues without pause – we remain focused on our competitions, programs, pathways, and grassroots development, and the current Board is also confident in seeing through its term.”
In a brief statement, Mr. Laisaid, “It has been a privilege to serve the basketball community. I am stepping down mainly for personal reasons, but will work with the Executive to ensure an orderly handover. I remain as the greatest supporter to Solomon Islands basketball.”
SIBF assures all stakeholders that all planned competitions, team preparations, and development programs will proceed as scheduled. Vice-President Marau now leads the day-to-day governance and stakeholder engagements to ensure continuity, while financial oversight, athletes support, partner commitments and other basketball related programs remain unchanged.
Out of respect for personal circumstances, SIBF will not comment further on the reasons for the resignation, but will provide other necessary administrative updates in due course
SOURCE : Solomon Islands Basketball Federation