4 Feb 2015

Fiji TV director denies government interference

12:07 pm on 4 February 2015

The director of Fiji TV has categorically denied allegations of wrongdoing by former employees.

Fiji TV director and CEO of Fijian Holdings Nouzab Fareed, right, and acting CEO of Fiji TV, Geoffrey Smith.

Fiji TV director and CEO of Fijian Holdings Nouzab Fareed, right, and acting CEO of Fiji TV, Geoffrey Smith. Photo: Ricardo Morris / Republika

The director, who is the Fijian Holdings CEO Nouzab Fareed, has denied government interference in the termination of the former chief executive, Tevita Gonelevu, and the former Head of Content Tanya Waqanika.

The pair were terminated amidst fall out over a dispute about broadcasting of the World Rugby Sevens Series.

Mr Fareed says the company categorically refutes allegations made by Ms. Waqanika and Mr Gonelevu, who claim that the government, as well as Attorney-General and Minister for Communications Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, played a part in their dismissals.

"And instead such statements are clearly malicious, emotional, or without any basis. These statements are a clear indication of disgruntled employees, as a result of the decision taken by Fiji TV, which is the best interest of the company."

Nouzab Fareed says the former employees should have referred to their employment contracts, which is very clear on their terms of engagment and termination.