Consumer Council of Fiji Announces New Board Appointments
May 13, 2025
The Consumer Council of Fiji is proud to announce the appointment of its new Board,
comprising of leaders whose collective expertise will guide the Council in its mission to
safeguard consumer rights, advocate for fair practices, and empower Fijians through education
and policy engagement.
Welcoming the appointments, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives,
MSMEs and Communications, Hon Manoa Kamikamica stated, “I warmly welcome the newly
appointed and returning members of the Consumer Council’s Board, particularly the incoming
Chairperson, Ms. Mereseini Baleilevuka. The Consumer Council is essential in promoting
fairness, transparency, and accountability in the marketplace. With its diverse expertise, the
new Board will enhance the Council’s capacity to tackle critical consumer concerns. I
commend the Council for its unwavering advocacy and am confident this team will deliver
meaningful progress for all Fijians. As Fijians become increasingly informed and empowered,
the Council’s leadership must reflect the ccompetence and vision needed to meet growing
public expectations.”
“The new Board possesses the experience, expertise, and commitment required to strengthen
consumer advocacy and drive positive change across Fiji’s marketplace. I also extend my
sincere appreciation to the outgoing Board members for their valuable contributions and
dedicated service during their term.”
The newly appointed Chairperson, Ms. Mereseini Baleilevuka is a visionary leader with
over 40 years of executive experience in education, business, and governance, positioning her
as a formidable advocate for Fijian consumers. She is supported by Deputy Chairperson Ms.
Elizabeth J. Algar, a returning member renowned for her wealth of governance, policy, and
advocacy experience to the Council’s leadership.
The full composition of the Board is as follows:
- Ms. Mereseini Baleilevuka – Chairperson (New)
- Ms. Elizabeth J. Algar – Deputy Chairperson (Returning)
- Ms. Mereoni Rakatia – Board member (New)
- Ms. Anabel Ali – Board member (Returning)
- Mr. Shiu Raj – Board member (New)
- Ms. Jessica Naevo – Board member (New)
- Mr. Amitesh Deo – Board member (New)
Reflecting on her appointment, Board Chairperson Ms Baleilevuka said, “I am honoured to
lead this talented Board at a pivotal time for consumer rights in Fiji. Our collective focus will
be on ensuring accountability, transparency, and fairness in the marketplace. With the support
of CEO Ms. Seema Shandil and our dedicated team, we will work tirelessly to protect and
empower every Fijian consumer. I thank the Honourable Minister for entrusting me with this
responsibility.”
Also, in welcoming the new Board, the Chief Executive Officer of the Council Ms Seema
Shandil stated, “It is a pleasure to welcome our new Chairperson, Ms. Baleilevuka and all the
incoming board members. I look forward to working closely with them as we continue to
uphold and advance consumer rights in Fiji. The Board brings together a wide range of
expertise—from policy development to grassroots advocacy—ensuring strong leadership and
strategic clarity to advance our mission of building a marketplace that benefits all Fijians. Their
collective experience and insights will be invaluable as we address the dynamic challenges
within Fiji’s consumer landscape.”
The Council and its new Board reaffirm their pledge to uphold consumer rights, foster fair
business practices, and ensure every Fijian can participate confidently in the economy. With
this dynamic leadership team, the Council is poised to deliver even greater impact in the years
ahead.
