The general secretary of Fiji's National Workers Union has pleaded not guilty to a charge of malicious conduct to foster public anxiety.
Felix Anthony appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court yesterday.
The charge relates to alleged false statements made by Mr Anthony to the Fiji Times in April, when he was detained for two days by police during protests by workers of the Water Authority.
FBC News reports that if convicted, Mr Anthony could be fined up to $US2,500 and imprisoned for three years.
The matter has been adjourned until the 30th of this month for a pre-trial conference.