Questions regarding a culture of nepotism within the Fiji Bus Operators Association have surfaced, following an investigation into its internal affairs.

Concerns of unethical practices of the Association were raised by its own members to the Independent Bus Fare Review Committee.

Members of the Association have chosen to remain anonymous when complaining about the nature in which the FBOA conducts itself, out of fear, they will be victimized.

Committee chair, Joel Abraham says member believe changes need to be made.

“They have said that the nature in which the bus industry is organized – there is a system that really needs to be re-looked at. Currently it’s not a system of one operator – one vote. However, it is if you are one operator with 50 buses then you get 50 votes as oppose to one operator with 3 buses who only get three votes.”

Abraham says this practice ensures that bigger operators are rooted into the Association.

He adds members are now calling on the association to step down from national representation until there is fairness, equality and equity.

The Committee says after discussion, the association is ready to allow for a review of its governance structure.

Ironically the Association is now changing its tune, speaking to FBC News member, Nisar Ali believes nothing is wrong.

“It’s all the wrong. The Association is governed and managed by the constitution. The constitution been there for so many years and so many presidents have been appointed and elected under this constitution – so how come its now nepotism?”

Abraham says it will only be fair that an assessment is made to determine whether these claims are valid with these contradicting views between the association heads and its members.