Fiji cannot continue to behave like a police state where people are persecuted simply because they disagree with Government, says Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) national secretary Felix Anthony.
While welcoming the election of the People’s Alliance Party (PA), the National Federation Party (NFP) and SODELPA coalition government, Mr Anthony labelled the election as democracy in action and said they looked forward to the restoration of all human rights including workers’ rights in Fiji.
“This has been the cry of workers over the years. We are eager to work closely with the new government for the betterment of workers in Fiji,” he said.
“Much needs to be done including the repeal of draconian laws such as the Public Order (Amendment) Decree that denies people their basic human rights. Labour law review that has been collecting dust with the past government needs to be given priority.
“This and many other laws need to be reviewed and the new government has its plate full and overflowing. The FTUC is ready to play its part through the tripartite structures that needs to be revived.”
The FTUC called on President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere to summon Parliament and give the people the government that they had chosen without delay.
Mr Anthony also reiterated that the FTUC did not limit democracy to just elections but rather, also to the people and their participation in government and governance.
He also said this was absent over the past 16 years.
“People must feel free and not be intimidated for exercising their rights. More recently, the spate of arrest and detention by FICAC and the police has been very disturbing and intimidating. This must stop.
“Fiji cannot continue to behave like a police state where people are persecuted simply because they disagree with government. We call on the authorities to act in a reasonable manner consistent with the principles of democracy.”
In addition, Mr Anthony said the FTUC congratulated all elected members of the Parliament and looked forward to constructive debates on bills that would come before Parliament.
“We urge consultation with the people on Bills that may have great impact on people which has been absent from the last Parliament.
“Sufficient time must be given for debates, and we call on the new Parliament to review the Standing Orders to avoid abuse of Section 51 to scuttle debate. We, the workers, want to see real democracy in action.
“Despite all the glitches during the counting of votes, the voters have decided, and we urge everyone to accept the results and get Fiji moving forward again.”
