The proposed penalties under the draft Employment Relations Bill have been labelled as a dangerous shift towards draconian measures.

Deputy Leader of the Opposition Parveen Kumar made this statement while calling out the Coalition Government’s efforts to amend the Employment Relations Act 2007.

“Imposing fines up to $500,000 and 20-year prison terms shows the Coalition Government’s preference for strong-arm tactics,” said Mr Kumar.

“This Government, which claimed to bring about freedom and fairness, is pushing Fiji towards a repressive, anti-business environment.

“I call upon the Government to stop hiding behind closed doors, drop the facades of freedom, and engage in transparent, open consultation with all stakeholders.”

He said the voices of the business community, particularly MSMEs, must be heard.

“This is about more than just law, it’s about protecting the livelihoods of thousands of Fijians.

“We must prioritise balanced, fair solutions that safeguard workers without destroying businesses.”

He said the Coalition Government was on a dangerous path, one that would harm Fijians from all walks of life, and they must be held accountable for the real-life consequences of their actions.

When contacted yesterday former minister for labour Jone Usamate said he agreed with Mr Kumar’s comments.

The Opposition MPs were responding to a statement by the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation(FCEF) and the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association over of the proposed hefty fines.

FCEF and FHTA expressed concern that the penalties could have a major impact on medium, small and micro enterprises.