Former chief executive of the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC), Joel Abraham, has urged for a shift in public debate away from personal controversies surrounding his appointment and subsequent rescinding as FCCC Chairman. Instead, he emphasizes the necessity to focus on critical issues affecting electricity pricing and its broader implications for everyday Fijians.
In a recent statement, Abraham acknowledged the scrutiny and public sentiment related to the developments within the Commission. He expressed gratitude for the support he received amid the discussions and the emotional responses generated by these events.
Abraham asserted that it is crucial for the conversation to transcend individual personalities. “I want to say this clearly and respectfully — this moment should not be about me,” he stated. He highlighted the significant impact of electricity pricing on all sectors of society, including households, small businesses, farmers, and workers, who are grappling with rising living costs. He underscored that while personal appointments are temporary, decisions regarding electricity tariffs have enduring effects on the Fijian community.
The call for independent regulation, transparency, and accountability remains paramount, according to Abraham, as these principles will help maintain public confidence in decisions that directly affect the lives of individuals. He firmly rejects any transformation of this issue into a personal or political spectacle, advocating instead for mature, fact-based discussions that respect all parties involved.
Abraham hopes that the national discourse will refocus on the fairness, justification, and affordability of electricity tariff decisions and whether the processes leading to these decisions align with public expectations. “My hope is that the focus now shifts back to the substance of the matter — whether electricity pricing decisions are fair, justified, and affordable for the people of Fiji,” he said.
In conclusion, he urged both the media and the public to keep their discussions oriented towards the outcomes for Fijians rather than personal narratives, reinforcing his commitment to serve the nation with integrity and professionalism. This perspective invites a more constructive dialogue about crucial economic issues while promoting accountability and transparency in governance. It’s a hopeful plea for a collective focus on what truly matters for the well-being of Fijian families.
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