Senikavika Jiuta, the CEO of the Fijian Competition & Consumer Commission (FCCC), has addressed concerns regarding the recent public consultations on the proposed electricity tariff, stressing that these meetings aim for genuine engagement rather than mere awareness. “It’s not an awareness, it’s a face-to-face and one-on-one consultation with people,” Jiuta explained, highlighting the necessity for direct dialogue to counter misinformation circulating among the public.
Following a 21-day consultation period, a decision regarding the revised 2025 Electricity Tariff will be reached. Jiuta pointed out that while previous sessions held in December sought to raise awareness about the potential impacts of the tariff, the current round is focused on collecting more nuanced feedback due to considerable public outcry on social media.
Lawrence Kumar, president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, echoed Jiuta’s remarks, advocating for a thorough examination of the proposed tariff increase. He proposed that the increase should be postponed, emphasizing that the government frequently underscores the importance of public participation in governing processes. While acknowledging the Finance Ministry’s decision to delay the initial tariff increase set for January 1, Kumar expressed caution, hoping that these consultations would transcend superficial engagement.
In a call to action, Lautoka resident Sereima Bulou encouraged her community to participate actively in these forums. She criticized individuals who express dissatisfaction after decisions have been made but fail to attend forums where their voices could influence outcomes. Bulou emphasized the critical need to understand the implications of tariff changes for both residential and commercial users, noting that such costs ultimately impact the broader community.
The revised consultations for the 2025 Electricity Tariff are ongoing today at locations including the Lautoka Sugar City Mall, thus providing additional opportunities for public involvement. By taking part, community members can express their opinions and play a role in shaping discussions surrounding electricity pricing and its broader impacts on Fijians. This proactive engagement stands to benefit the community, ensuring that their concerns are recognized and incorporated into the decision-making process.