Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu has labelled the Government’s decision to suspend the proposed Energy Fiji Ltd tariff increases as political theatre, warning the public the 21-day “stay” is about optics, not relief.
Responding to the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (FCCC) decision to suspend tariff increase and hold a 21-day consultation, Mr Seruiratu said while they acknowledged the suspension, they have rejected claims it reflected compassion.
Instead, he described it as a calculated move after public backlash.
“The Opposition acknowledges the suspension of the Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) tariff increases but warns the public that this 21-day ‘stay’ is a calculated piece of political theatre rather than a genuine act of compassion,” he said.
Mr Seruiratu said decisions of such scale could not occur without Cabinet involvement, arguing the tariff hike did not originate from a “rogue” process but moved through established ministerial channels.
He said the Government was now attempting to distance itself from its own decision-making only after gauging public anger and pressure from the Opposition.
Mr Seruiratu said the episode exposed a failure of governance, with leadership lacking foresight and relying instead on last-minute damage control.
“This suspension is a transparent attempt to bolster approval ratings rather than protect the interests of Fijian taxpayers,” he said.
He also raised concerns about the independence and capability of the FCCC, questioning the board’s endorsement of the increase and subsequent suspension for wider consultation.
The Opposition is demanding transparency, including genuine public consultation, fiscal honesty over EFL’s funding needs, and a detailed explanation surrounding the appointment and removal of FCCC chair Joel Abraham.
