Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau has announced that additional assessments and consultations are ongoing regarding the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (FCCC) proposal to increase electricity tariffs by 24.2 percent. In a recent statement, Tuisawau acknowledged the need for further evaluations and promised that a more detailed announcement would follow.
Expressing his disappointment over the proposed tariff hike, Tuisawau highlighted the necessity of extensive consultations and more time before any changes take effect. His sentiments resonate with those of Fiji Labour Party (FLP) leader Mahendra Chaudhry, who has publicly criticized the FCCC’s assertion of having conducted wide-ranging national consultations prior to suggesting the increase. Chaudhry contends that the FCCC did not adequately publicize the proposed rise, limiting community input from businesses and residents.
Chaudhry advocated that decisions impacting consumer costs should only be finalized after considering public feedback. He criticized the FCCC’s approach as flawed, particularly since it treats this proposed increase as a continuation of an earlier application that was previously rejected.
Sila Balawa, the general secretary of the People’s Alliance Party (PAP), also raised concerns regarding the proposed increases. He underscored that demands for additional consultations do not compromise the FCCC’s independence but rather reflect a responsible governance approach on issues that significantly impact household budgets, small enterprises, and overall living costs.
Balawa stressed the importance of grounding regulatory decisions not just in technical data but also in the realities faced by ordinary citizens. He believes that fostering meaningful public engagement enhances trust, refines decision-making, and prioritizes consumer interests within regulatory discussions.
In response to the proposed tariff increases and rising community concerns, the FCCC has initiated nationwide Electricity Tariff Awareness Sessions, aimed at educating the public and gathering feedback on the issue. These sessions, set to continue until the end of the month, present an opportunity for transparency and engagement among stakeholders, ultimately striving for a balance that honors both regulatory autonomy and public interest. This approach signals a commitment to collaborative governance that could alleviate concerns regarding the cost of living for Fijians.