The Fijian Competition & Consumer Commission (FCCC) has sent out a warning to agents and landlords practising discrimination when giving houses/flats out for rent.
This was revealed by the FCCC chief executive officer Joel Abraham.
Mr Abraham said they were aware of this happening.
“Racial prejudices and discrimination has no place in Fiji, I must make this crystal clear. The FCCC is against such practices that seek to discriminate, base on racial lines,” he said.
On the same note Mr Abraham is urging members of the public to come out and lodge complaints if they have been denied tenancy because of their race.
“The commission is aware of some incidents where race has been used to deny tenancy, however, individuals did not come to lodge complaints. I urge all Fijians to speak up against such discriminatory practices so that they can be highlighted and investigated.”
He went on to say “anyone who practises racial prejudice and discrimination is not a true Fijian.
“Absolutely no one should engage in promoting racism or xenophobia and definitely not the agents who must ensure that the rights of the landlord is protected and that their responsibilities are discharged as required under the law.”
Mr Abraham concluded by reminding landlords that there would be risks associated when giving out properties for rent and there were ways to seek legal action for any losses that may arise from the misconduct of tenants.
“There are opportunities for civil redress provided by law to address any losses that may arise out of the misconduct of tenants. However, resorting to illegal tactics to enforce rights will not be tolerated and profiling tenants based on their race, gender, ethnicity, place of birth is outright wrong.”
Meanwhile, five complaints have been received by the commission against landlords and real estate agents for the 2017-2018 financial year. Complaints received ranged from illegal rent increase, unfair evictions and deceptive conducts.
Credit: Avneel Chand, Fiji Times, 29.09. 2017
Bayshore Fiji Realestate Blog 