The People’s Alliance Party is calling on the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission to fix the way public consultations on the proposed electricity price increase are being held and to make sure consultations are genuine and meaningful.
While raising concerns on reports from Labasa and Nadi, the Party’s General Secretary Sila Balawa says more than 100 people went to the Civic Centre in Labasa after being told there would be a consultation.
He says instead of being allowed to speak or ask questions, they were asked to write their names and collect free calendars.
Balawa says there was no real discussion about the electricity price increase and, as Labasa farmer Dewan Chand said, this was not a consultation and people were only told that prices would go up.
He highlighted that in Nadi, similar concerns were raised by the President of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who described the consultation as misleading.
He adds that when both ordinary people and business leaders are saying the same thing, it shows the process is not working.
Balawa says a real consultation means listening to people.
He further says that it means giving them a chance to speak, ask questions and share how decisions will affect their lives.
He adds that what is happening now looks like a box-ticking exercise.
The People’s Alliance General Secretary says electricity is an essential service and any increase in price affects families, farmers, small businesses and the cost of living for everyone.
He says at a time when many people are already struggling, they deserve respect and a real voice.
He further says that while they respect the Commission’s independence, they also remind them that it was established to look after and protect the interests of consumers, the people.
He adds that it is important that people are properly informed about why decisions are made, and this is why consultations must be genuine.
Balawa says they will not stay silent while ordinary Fijians are sidelined on an issue that directly affects their daily lives.
He says the People’s Alliance Party stands firmly with people in communities across Fiji, and their voices matter, which is why they must be heard.
We have sent questions to FCCC. They are yet to respond.
