Further assessments and consultations are underway concerning the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (FCCC) proposal to raise electricity tariffs by 24.2 percent, according to Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau. In a statement, he acknowledged that further evaluations are necessary and promised a detailed announcement would be made later.
Minister Tuisawau expressed his disappointment regarding the approval of the tariff increase, emphasizing the need for more extensive consultations and additional time before such changes are enacted. This stance has been echoed by Fiji Labour Party (FLP) leader Mahendra Chaudhry, who criticized the FCCC’s claims of having conducted widespread nationwide consultations prior to suggesting the tariff hike. Chaudhry asserted that, based on feedback from consulted businesses, the FCCC did not follow the appropriate procedures of publicizing the proposed increase for community input.
He argued that decisions should only be finalized after considering public submissions, highlighting a belief that the FCCC’s approach was flawed for treating this proposed increase as a continuation of a previous application that had already been rejected earlier this year.
Sila Balawa, the general secretary of the People’s Alliance Party (PAP), also voiced concerns about the proposed increases, stressing that calls for additional consultations do not undermine the FCCC’s independence. Instead, he argued that such calls reflect a responsible approach to governance, particularly on issues affecting household budgets, small businesses, and the overall cost of living.
Balawa emphasized that regulatory decisions should not only be rooted in technical data but must also consider the actual experiences and challenges faced by everyday citizens. He asserted that meaningful public engagement enhances trust, improves decision-making, and prioritizes consumer interests in regulatory matters.
In response to the proposed increases and community concerns, the FCCC has initiated nationwide Electricity Tariff Awareness Sessions, which are scheduled to continue until the end of this month, offering an opportunity for public education and feedback on the issue. This step may serve to enhance transparency and foster broader discussions among stakeholders about electricity tariffs in Fiji, ultimately aiming for a balance that respects both regulatory independence and public interest.