The Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) is currently facing a significant leadership challenge as Shalendra Prasad, the organization’s secretary, has initiated a vote of no confidence against long-standing president Ram Raju. Raju has held his position for an impressive 16 years, but Prasad argues that there are pressing issues regarding leadership effectiveness, including financial mismanagement and conflicts of interest associated with board appointments.
Prasad claims that Raju has improperly filled the NCCI Council with members linked to the Hash House Harriers group, raising concerns about favoritism and transparency. Notably, he pointed out the lack of a proper annual general meeting since 2021, suggesting that this absence reflects poorly on the chamber’s governance and accountability.
During the upcoming special general meeting, set for 6 PM at the Bluelight Village Hotel in Nadi, Prasad has requested that an independent chairperson be appointed to ensure fair proceedings. He stresses the importance of addressing these internal issues to foster a more responsible and dynamic leadership.
Raju has accepted some blame for the alleged financial mismanagement, and he has agreed to provide the necessary financial reports from 2021 to 2024 within a three-month period. This acknowledgment may indicate a willingness to address accountability, providing a glimmer of hope for more systematic governance in the future.
In the context of broader developments in Fiji, including political calls for accountability from leaders like Savenaca Narube of the Unity Fiji Party, there is potential for transformation in leadership dynamics across various sectors. As the NCCI confronts its internal challenges, it presents an opportunity for rejuvenation within the organization, allowing for fresh perspectives and innovative approaches that could benefit both its members and the broader business community in Nadi.
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