More than 200 staff members from the University of the South Pacific gathered in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s office to demand the immediate suspension of Professor Pal Ahluwalia. This protest comes in response to the USP Council’s decision to launch an investigation into the situation.
Both the Association of USP Staff and the USP Staff Union have called for Professor Ahluwalia’s removal, citing unresolved complaints regarding his leadership, including significant governance issues and the recent ousting of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osbourne-Naikatini, who also participated in the strike.
Staff Union President, Reuben Colata, announced that an email has been circulated to all USP staff, stating that the university plans to take Permanent Secretary for Employment Jone Maretino Nemani to court. This action is perceived as retaliation against the Ministry of Employment for permitting the two unions to strike in support of removing the Vice-Chancellor.
Colata noted that the strike would continue, as they have the mandate to do so until February 16, marking six months from the initial start date in August. In August, the association had voted overwhelmingly in favor of the strike, with an impressive 95 percent support from staff in Fiji.
The university has indicated that a statement will be released later today. Meanwhile, Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia is currently in Vanuatu. A USP Council Meeting is scheduled for November 24-25 in the Cook Islands.