The Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) has voiced strong opposition to Energy Fiji Limited’s (EFL) recent decision to initiate a defamation lawsuit against the Construction Energy and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF). The FTUC has characterized this legal move as an attempt to stifle legitimate union activities and undermine the rights of union members to communicate and express their concerns about unresolved industrial matters.
Felix Anthony, the National Secretary of FTUC, issued a statement highlighting that the ongoing court action seeks to restrict the union’s right to communicate with its members about critical issues, particularly regarding the 2024 and 2025 Log of Claims that remain unresolved. Mr. Anthony pointed out that the 2024 claims have been pending for two years, while the 2025 claims have been outstanding for a year, despite the union’s prolonged efforts to address these matters.
Furthermore, Mr. Anthony criticized EFL for failing to engage in good faith negotiations regarding these claims, calling for the company to open a dialogue with the union to amicably reach an agreement. He emphasized that responsible management should seek constructive engagement rather than resorting to legal strategies.
He expressed concern that the lawsuit represents an attack on freedom of speech and the fundamental rights of trade unions. According to him, EFL’s actions hinder the union’s ability to communicate vital information to its members, an issue he believes is unacceptable.
Anthony described EFL’s defamation claim as misaligned with contemporary industrial relations, stressing the necessity for both parties to collaborate even post-dispute. He warned that such legal actions only serve to erode trust and relationships, thereby failing to facilitate any meaningful resolution of the disputes at hand.
In addition to the immediate implications for the union, the FTUC connected this issue with broader public concerns regarding EFL, particularly in light of controversies over proposed increases to electricity tariffs. Mr. Anthony stated that EFL needs to consider the impact of its actions on its reputation as an employer, arguing that the legal action further undermines public trust in the company’s integrity.
The FTUC has called upon the EFL Board to immediately intervene in the situation. Anthony urged Board members to address the management’s approach and to prioritize amicable resolutions over costly legal battles that undermine workers’ fundamental rights.
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