The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement is calling for no further reduction to the prison sentence imposed on former Fijian Holdings Limited Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Nouzab Fareed.

Fareed was convicted of two counts of indecent assault involving a female subordinate in his office. He was sentenced to eight months and 22 days in prison, with part of the sentence suspended.

Fareed has indicated that he intends to appeal, arguing that the sentence is excessive.

FWRM says it respects the independence of the judiciary and Fareed’s right to pursue legal avenues. However, the organisation maintains that the power imbalance between Fareed and the victim was clear and that the sentence already reflects leniency given the seriousness of the offences.

FWRM says a strong deterrent is needed to send a clear message to others who engage in sexual harassment and abuse of power in the workplace.

The organisation is also stressing the need for companies and those in positions of authority to be held accountable for workplace misconduct.