The High Court has issued an interim injunction preventing the current president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI), Lawrence Kumar, and interim secretary Shalendra Prasad from holding their positions. The ruling, delivered by Justice Sekonaia Vodokisolomone in Lautoka, will remain in effect pending the resolution of the underlying case.
This legal action arises from a special general meeting held on June 12, where a vote of no confidence was taken against former chamber president Dr. Ram Raju, leading to his removal. Dr. Raju contested the legitimacy of this process, claiming it was unconstitutional due to insufficient notice and other procedural irregularities, including concerns about the circulation of a new agenda just three days prior to the meeting. Justice Vodokisolomone remarked on apparent breaches of the NCCI constitution, which mandates a minimum seven-day notice for meetings of this kind.
Dr. Raju’s application for the injunction highlights ongoing internal conflict within the chamber, following allegations of financial mismanagement and calls from members for improved governance. The ruling mentioned that there is disagreement over who should have presented the financial reports at the meeting, a crucial aspect of the chamber’s operations that had not been resolved prior to the decision.
Furthermore, Justice Vodokisolomone indicated that costs related to the application would be reserved until the final ruling on the issue, emphasizing the importance of the court’s role in ensuring fair governance practices within the NCCI.
The defendants intend to appeal against the court’s decision and plan to file an opposing affidavit within 14 days. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on September 16, as stakeholders remain hopeful that the outcome will lead to much-needed reforms within the organization. Observers believe that positive changes in leadership practices may emerge from this legal scrutiny, beneficial for the local business community in Nadi.
This unfolding case serves to underline the broader themes of accountability and governance in organizational structures, integral to fostering a transparent business environment in the region.
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