The National Federation Party has distanced itself from comments made by its MP Lenora Qereqeretabua, stating it has never supported the proposed Vuda waste-to-energy project.
In a statement, party president Parmod Chand said claims that the MP was opposing the project without party backing were “misleading”.
“The National Federation Party is making it absolutely clear that contrary to Party MP Hon Lenora Qereqeretabua’s claim, the NFP has never expressed any support for the proposed Vuda waste to energy project,” Mr Chand said.
“And there is no dissent within the NFP on this issue despite her totally misleading claim… At no stage she asked the Party or its leader on our stand.”
Mr Chand said the party remained committed to proper process, including broad public consultation and a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment before any major development proceeds.
“This process must not be compromised at any time with Fijians being provided every opportunity to thoroughly scrutinise every aspect of any project that can impact the environment, even if it is for national development,” he said.
He added that the Vuda proposal should be subjected to the same level of scrutiny as any other project.
“The proposed Vuda waste to energy project is not an exception as perceived by some. It must be subjected to intense scrutiny.”
Mr Chand also pointed out that as Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Ms Qereqeretabua is aware of the importance of following established procedures, including those outlined in parliamentary Standing Orders.
He said while MPs are free to express their views, internal party and government processes should be respected.
“She should have first expressed her views within the Government caucus before posting it on social media,” he said.
Mr Chand further noted that the Government has not approved the project, citing statements from Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya and Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo confirming that no final decision has been made.
“But to oppose the project and claim it is being done without the backing of the Party is a wild and misleading claim,” Mr Chand said.
