The High Court in Lautoka is set to deliver a ruling on July 29 regarding an injunction application submitted by Dr. Ram Raju, the former president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI). Dr. Raju is seeking to prevent the current president, Lawrence Kumar, from assuming the role, claiming that his removal was executed through “strong-arm tactics” and without adequate democratic process, specifically lacking an annual general meeting (AGM).
In court, Dr. Raju’s lawyer, Anil Singh, emphasized that Dr. Raju was democratically elected on March 14, 2025, and alleged that he was dismissed without fair proceedings. Singh characterized the communications urging Dr. Raju’s resignation as a “smear campaign.”
Contrarily, Lawrence Kumar’s defense lawyer, Alvin Dass, contended that Dr. Raju had not conducted an AGM for several years and failed to provide necessary audited financial accounts. He also highlighted that an “illegal meeting” was conducted, which the current leadership refused to attend. Furthermore, Dass warned that if the injunction were allowed, it could potentially lead to the collapse of the NCCI.
This legal battle follows significant turmoil within the NCCI, with previous allegations of financial mismanagement and ineffective governance raised by members, leading to calls for Dr. Raju’s resignation. The recent internal strife has catalyzed a shift in governance, with newly elected leaders expressing a commitment to improve accountability and transparency.
Just as Kumar acknowledged the challenges faced by the NCCI over the years, he pointed towards a need for transformation within the chamber to restore trust and functionality. Those involved remain optimistic that this process, despite its controversies, may lead to revitalization in leadership practices that better cater to the interests of local businesses and foster a more dynamic environment.
As the case unfolds, stakeholders are hopeful for constructive outcomes that could rejuvenate the chamber’s operations and governance.
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