The Ba Town Council has appointed Manjula Devi as the new Acting Chief Executive in accordance with directives from Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa. Devi’s appointment follows the return of Moshim Khan to his role as the Chair of the Special Administrators, who had previously fulfilled the Acting Chief Executive responsibilities.
This leadership change comes in the wake of a notable protest staged by 34 general workers, who temporarily halted operations to voice their concerns. Minister Nalumisa emphasized the critical need for transparent communication within municipal councils regarding employment conditions. He stated that sharing vital information about job terms and changes with staff and union representatives is essential.
Amid this transition, many issues raised during the protests have reportedly been addressed, and it is now up to the new Acting CEO to manage the remaining challenges, particularly those concerning pay negotiations with the unions. The Minister stressed the importance of effective dialogue in resolving disputes and encouraged council management to engage more proactively with employees and union representatives to prevent future conflicts. He also pointed out the procedural gaps that became evident during the protest, reiterating the necessity for adherence to employment laws.
In a positive development, the workers who initially protested have since returned to their duties, signaling a move toward restoring normal operations within the council. This scenario underscores a commitment to enhancing local government dynamics and employee relations in Fiji. Improved cooperation and communication within the council can foster better governance and ultimately serve the interests of the Ba community effectively.
By taking these measures, the Ba Town Council is working to build a more transparent and responsive governance model that prioritizes the voices of its employees, setting a hopeful tone for the future.
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