Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) has officially addressed the issues brought to light in a recent Notice of Strike from the Construction, Energy & Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF). The company clarified that the concerns raised in the strike notice are already being examined by the Arbitration Court and are separate from ongoing defamation cases involving union officials.
EFL stated that the strike notice falls under Trade Dispute No. 4 of 2025, which is currently awaiting resolution in the Arbitration Court. The company pointed out that the matters highlighted are also part of CETWUF’s earlier issued Notice of Secret Ballot from August 2025, which is similarly under judicial review.
In its statement, EFL refuted claims circulating on the Fiji Times Official Facebook Page on January 16, 2026, which suggested that the company had taken legal action against the union immediately after the strike notice was presented. EFL emphasized that this claim is misleading, clarifying that the legal proceedings relate to a defamation case initiated at the Lautoka High Court on December 24, 2025. This case targets CETWUF and its General Secretary, John Paul, over defamatory remarks aimed at EFL’s Chief Executive Officer and the General Manager of Human Resources. EFL asserted that this legal action pertains strictly to personal reputation issues and does not address employment conditions or workplace matters.
The company expressed its frustration regarding CETWUF’s continued failure to retract or apologize for the statements deemed defamatory, which were reportedly shared through a CETWUF Viber group and via email on May 14, 2025. Consequently, EFL felt it had no choice but to pursue legal recourse.
EFL concluded by reiterating its respect for the judicial process and its commitment to awaiting court outcomes related to these issues. The company also appealed to its employees for cooperation during this challenging period, emphasizing that further escalation could adversely affect electricity services. This call for unity underscores EFL’s hopeful outlook for a resolution that prioritizes both employee welfare and the integrity of its services.