The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has raised fresh concerns after authorities denied a permit for a planned peaceful march in Vuda that was to oppose a proposed waste‑to‑energy project, saying the decision may undermine civic space for communities to raise environmental concerns.
The march, organisers say, was intended to give affected residents a public platform to voice their views on a development they contend will affect their environment and livelihoods. PRF founder Amitesh Deo said the refusal to grant the permit raises fundamental questions about the protection of civic freedoms in Fiji. “In a democratic society, people must have the space to peacefully express their views, especially on issues that impact their environment, health, and livelihoods. The cancellation of the permit for the march is concerning and warrants explanation,” he said.
Deo urged authorities to explain the reasons behind the permit denial, arguing that unexplained decisions risk eroding public trust. “We are simply urging for clarity and fairness. When decisions are made without explanation, it risks eroding trust. Open communication is essential if we are to move forward collectively on national development priorities,” he said, calling transparency critical to maintaining confidence in decision‑making processes.
Highlighting the stakes, Deo stressed that projects such as the proposed waste‑to‑energy plant carry long‑term implications for land, people and key industries in the area. “It is critical that communities are not only consulted but are also able to openly express their support or concerns without barriers,” he said, framing community participation as essential to responsible environmental governance.
PRF’s statement positions the denied march as the latest flashpoint in a wider debate over how Fiji addresses mounting waste management challenges and balances development with community rights. While the organisation reiterated its support for sustainable and inclusive solutions to the country’s waste problems, it said protecting civic space remains equally important: “Maintaining open civic space is essential for public trust and national progress,” Deo added.
The foundation has called on relevant authorities to clarify the rationale for the decision and to engage with communities and civil society to ensure any future consultations are perceived as fair and transparent. PRF said it remains committed to advocacy and collaboration on sustainable approaches to Fiji’s waste challenges while safeguarding the rights of affected communities.
As the situation develops, PRF’s demand for an explanation is likely to intensify public scrutiny of both the proposed Vuda project and the way authorities manage public dissent. The organisation has signalled it will pursue clarity and continued engagement rather than escalating the dispute, underscoring that openness and participation are central to moving forward on contentious national projects.
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