More than 200 staff members from the University of the South Pacific staged a protest outside the Vice-Chancellor’s office, demanding the immediate suspension of Professor Pal Ahluwalia. This demonstration comes in response to the USP Council’s decision to launch an investigation into allegations surrounding his leadership.
The Association of USP Staff and the USP Staff Union have expressed dissatisfaction with Professor Ahluwalia’s governance, specifically citing unresolved issues and the recent termination of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osbourne-Naikatini, who was also present during the protest.
Reuben Colata, President of the Staff Union, informed that an email was sent to all USP staff indicating plans to take legal action against the Permanent Secretary for Employment, Jone Maretino Nemani. This move is seen as a response to the Ministry of Employment’s approval of strike actions by the unions, which are calling for the Vice-Chancellor’s removal.
Colata reiterated that the protest will continue, as staff have been authorized to strike until February 16, six months from their initial strike vote on August 16, which saw 95 percent support among staff in Fiji.
The university plans to issue a statement later in the day, while Professor Ahluwalia is currently in Vanuatu. Additionally, a USP Council Meeting is scheduled for November 24-25 in the Cook Islands.