The National Federation Party (NFP) has articulated its strong opposition to the proposed increase in electricity tariffs, asserting that there is no valid reason to impose higher costs on residential, commercial, or industrial users. The party is urging Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) along with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission to retract the suggested hike in the interest of the public’s well-being.
In a recent statement, NFP President Parmod Chand condemned the initiative, noting that it was introduced without sufficient public consultation, which has sparked a considerable backlash from the community. He indicated that the consultations carried out have lacked the necessary transparency, generating further concern among the populace.
While EFL contends that the tariff increase will not directly affect 99,000 residential consumers, the NFP argues that the proposed average hike of approximately 34 percent for businesses will inevitably lead to higher prices for goods and services. This could aggravate the already challenging cost of living and fuel inflation, adversely affecting many households.
The party warned that this tariff increase could undermine the government’s efforts over the last three budgets aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures and attracting investment. Acknowledging the critical need for investment in the energy sector, Chand stressed the importance of balancing developmental needs with their economic and social consequences for the people.
The NFP advocates for ongoing discussions to find alternative financing methods that would safeguard households, businesses, and the wider economy from the ramifications of increased electricity costs. They remain adamant that the proposal for raising electricity tariffs should be withdrawn to protect the interests of the community. Such discussions could pave the way for solutions that ensure both energy sector growth and economic stability for the people of Fiji.