Former Fiji Teachers Union industrial relations officer Arun Prasad is taking a second shot at the general secretary’s post that will contested later this month.
Mr Prasad has filed his nomination to contest the post against incumbent Muniappa Goundar at the election scheduled for April 22.
Explaining the reasons for his decision to contest the election, Mr Prasad said: “Members Fiji wide have called me to contest for the position of the general secretary as they know I have the necessary qualification and experience in industrial relations and labour laws of Fiji.
“My strength is that I know most of the members personally. I have visited almost all schools where our members are teaching and I understand the difficulties they face in the course of their duties.”
Mr Prasad was the FTU industrial relations officer for 17 years.
“I have emerged from rank and file of the FTU membership. Prior to joining FTU as the industrial relations officer in 2002, I served FTU as the publicity officer, personnel officer and as the assistant general secretary.
“I want to ensure that FTU is apolitical, performing its functions in a neutral, impartial and professional manner,” he said.
“I want to ensure there is an improvement in the quality of union services to the members and ensuring a better administration in promoting the membership interest.
“There is a need for stronger representation and voice in the pursuance of member’s grievances and employment matters.”
The Fijian Elections Office will conduct the poll for the FTU.
