Fiji Trades Union Congress President Daniel Urai said it is up to the people on how they interpret FTUC’s involvement in the People’s Democratic Party, however, he confirmed that the party was set up by the FTUC and its affiliates.
While questions have been raised on the involvement of Urai and Felix Anthony in the PDP, Urai said they do not hold official posts in the party.
However, Urai confirmed that he and others are consulted on certain matters.
Under the Political Parties Decree, a public officer, which includes trade union officials, shall not be eligible to be an applicant, official or a member of a proposed political party or a registered political party.
They should not engage in political activity that may compromise or be seen to compromise the political neutrality of that person’s office and they should not publicly indicate support for or opposition to any political party.
When questioned on whether Urai and Anthony have been publicly supporting the People’s Democratic Party and influencing members of the FTUC unions and their affiliates, Urai said he will not comment on it.
He said he can only say that the FTUC set up the PDP and the unionists have been restricted by the government from actively participating in the political party.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
Feature
It’s up to people’s interpretation says Urai
