The Koronivia Business Council is deeply concerned over recent reports involving the alleged mistreatment of 26 Bangladeshi workers by a retail business operating in Koronivia, Nausori.
The Council convened an urgent meeting yesterday, Monday 12th May, to address the matter.
Council President, Amitesh Deo, says they welcome the investigation launched by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption and support the formation of a multi-agency team as announced by the Minister for Immigration, Viliame Naupoto.
Deo says there have been other allegations over time regarding labour law violations involving this business, including employee mistreatment and practices that have led to wider social problems in the area.
He says there have also been grievances raised by local employees of the same business in the past, particularly around wage-related issues and general working conditions.
He adds as we mark the Girmit celebrations, it is distressing to witness such exploitation of workers 146 years after the arrival of indentured labourers in Fiji because this is a human rights issue.
He further adds that the Council is strongly of the view that if the business in question is found guilty of the allegations, it should face de-registration.
He also says as a council representing legitimate businesses operating in Koronivia, they strongly denounce the reported actions and wish to make it clear that any business found to be engaged in such exploitative and inhumane practices is not, and will not be, part of this Council.
Deo confirmed that the business under investigation is not a member of the Koronivia Business Council.
He adds that they had raised concerns with the Police about this particular business during previous community meetings, and they had specifically highlighted social issues stemming from the late-night sale of liquor, which was contributing to public disturbances, including intoxicated individuals loitering near residential areas.
The Council President says moving forward, they will explore ways to more rigorously scrutinise the operations and conduct of businesses applying to join the Council.
He says their goal is to ensure they represent only those businesses committed to ethical business practices, fair employment, and the welfare of all workers, local and foreign.
Deo says in past instances, the Council has worked closely with law enforcement authorities to address criminal activities in the area, and they remain ready to collaborate with the Immigration Department, the Ministry of Employment, FICAC, and the Police to ensure justice is served and prevent future abuses.
He adds they are grateful for the ongoing efforts of the Fiji Police Force, and their work over the past year has led to noticeable improvements in reducing criminal activities in Koronivia.
Deo says Koronivia is situated away from the city and town centres.
He says while it remains geographically isolated, it is home to some businesses and organisations striving to create jobs and stimulate the local economy, which also generates employment opportunities for residents of Koronivia and nearby areas.
He further says they also humbly request the media to report with care on such matters.
Deo adds that while they understand the public interest in these issues, they request that future reporting specify the business involved or the nature of the business rather than broadly associating the entire Koronivia area.
He says generalised references are tarnishing the reputation of the hardworking and law-abiding businesses and organisations operating there, which are making genuine efforts to uplift this community.
Deo says the Council stands in solidarity with the affected workers and trusts that all relevant authorities will act swiftly to ensure accountability and justice.
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
