The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has successfully prosecuted a landlord for unconscionable conduct under the FCCC Act 2010 in the Magistrates Court of Suva. The case arose from an incident on April 22, 2022, where the landlord removed and dismantled the roof of a tenant’s home in Muslim League Zone 7, Nabua, while the tenant was not present. This action left the tenant’s belongings vulnerable to the elements, resulting in significant damage and distress.
On September 4, 2025, the court imposed a $2,000 fine on the landlord, ordered $500 compensation for the tenant, and required the landlord to pay $250 in prosecution costs. The judgment underscored the gravity of unconscionable conduct in housing, especially impacting tenants in informal settlements who lack formal tenancy agreements. FCCC CEO Senikavika Jiuta has hailed the ruling as a landmark victory for consumer protection. She emphasized that such rulings convey a powerful message that landlords engaging in exploitative or predatory behavior will face justice.
This case is part of a broader effort by the FCCC to ensure consumer rights and fair practices across various sectors, as seen in previous actions against businesses that failed to meet obligations or made deceptive claims. Consistent enforcement in such matters is critical to deterring unethical practices and safeguarding vulnerable consumer groups. The FCCC remains committed to protecting consumer interests and fostering an equitable business environment, signaling continued vigilance in its mission to uphold fair trading practices and consumer rights in Fiji.
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