Unsafe footpaths, a growing public safety risk
CONCERNS over unsafe footpaths, drainage and sewer issues in central Suva should alarm both authorities and the public. Reports of elderly people slipping and falling on poorly maintained footpaths are not isolated incidents. This is ongoing in many parts of the city and has been ignored for far too long. This is the same for other towns throughout Fiji. High-traffic areas such as Mark St, Renwick Rd and locations near major shopping centres remain hazardous, especially during wet weather. Poorly repaired utility chambers, uneven surfaces and inadequate drainage have turned simple pedestrian movement into a daily risk. For senior citizens, persons with disabilities and parents with children, navigating these areas has become increasingly unsafe. What is more frustrating is that these issues have persisted for years despite repeated inspections, complaints and site markings. Temporary measures and blame-shifting between agencies are not solutions. Maintenance responsibilities may be shared, but accountability must be clear. Public infrastructure should not deteriorate to a point where serious injury or legal action becomes inevitable before action is taken. Suva promotes itself as the hub of the Pacific and a destination for visitors and investors. Yet unsafe footpaths, sewer overflows and inadequate public amenities project the opposite image. Businesses and retailers continue to do their part, but without proper infrastructure support, their efforts are undermined. It is time for decisive, coordinated action. Preventive maintenance is far less costly than emergency responses, compensation claims or reputational damage. Public safety should never be compromised by delays, excuses or administrative gaps. It’s high time FRA must act proactively and take immediate actions against corporate and private firms that interfere with public utilities and assets. FRA should not play the blame game or shift the blames. Wherever, firm actions need to be taken by FRA, it must do so at all costs. A safe city begins at street level. INDAR DEO BISUN Sakoca Heights, Tamavua
Drive safely
THE 17-year-old drunk driver arrested after a breathalyzer test (FT 6/12) should alert many habitual drinkers who take risks to drink and drive. “One for the road” goes out of control causing a risk for road users. Drink, but don’t drive. Drink milk or Fiji spring water during this high cost of living crisis. Road safety is life safety. TAHIR ALI Hamilton, New Zealand
Award of the year
I GUESS the three-wheeler Coalition Government leader could scoop the “strategical and changeable portfolios” of the year award for the reshuffle he has made during his first term in leadership. AREKI DAWAI Maharaj Place, Suva
Ministerial reshuffle
GIVEN Lynda Tabuya’s illustrious political career, I have no quarrel with PM Rabuka adding Environment and Climate Change to Minister of Information Lynda Tabuya’s portfolio in his latest cabinet reshuffle (Ministers get new portfolios — FT 17/12 ). What I can’t understand is why Mosese Bulitavu has been shuffled off from that portfolio after all his pomp and parade and paraphernalia at the recent COP 30? RAJEND NAIDU Sydney, NSW, Australia
Keep reshuffling
THE government will keep reshuffling and before you know it it’s the second coming. Sobo! WISE MUAVONO Hedstrom Pl, Balawa, Lautoka
Drug trade
READING reports in The Fiji Times of police officers involved in drug trade (FT 7/12) makes us lose trust in the security forces. They are most responsible for maintaining law and order. God help us and save our police force. Our safety is a concern. TAHIR ALI Hamilton, New Zealand
Performance indicators
DO the members of Parliament have KPIs? If not, it needs to be introduced immediately. ASISH VINAY PRASAD Park Rd, Raiwasa, Suva
Life lost
A MAN lost his life because somebody wanted to steal his mobile phone and gumboot. Was it really necessary to kill him for that? A 62-year-old woman succumbed to death after she was brutally assaulted by a teenager. Has life become so cheap? Some might say it’s a case of robbery went wrong. My foot. SELWA NANDAN Lautoka
Holiday time
HOLIDAYS come like gentle rain, a pause from daily race
A time to heal the weary mind and slow the restless pace
They’re not just days to drift away in endless sleep or screen
But chances rare to shape our lives more thoughtful and more keen
Learn to cook a wholesome meal, or master mindful breath
Care for body, heart, and mind, the quiet roots of health
When workdays call you back, you’ll stand renewed and strong
For holidays used purposefully make everyday life long
Parental care during school holidays, a gentle guiding light
Where love plans days with patience, from morning until night
Holiday is an opportunity for students to spend their time with care
To rest their minds and bodies, breathe fresh and gentle air
To read, to learn new skills, to dream and to explore
To help at home with kindness, and value family more
Holiday moments are designed to refresh and rekindle our minds
They loosen daily burdens and untie the tightest binds
Some people travel to broaden their horizon
To taste new cultures, new places, feel joy in every season
They walk unknown roads with curious eyes
Learning life’s lessons under different skies
If holidays were not there then
Life would feel like endless pen
Work would weigh both night and day
And time to rest would slip away
Some people are deprived of holidays because of circumstances
Bound by duties, struggles, ill-health or unexpected chances
They carry silent burdens with courage deep inside
Putting needs of loved ones and survival before pride
For some, holiday time means to eat, drink and be merry
Tables are filled with laughter, moments warm and very cheery
Breaks are meant for human connections
Moments of warmth and true reflections
Holiday time is always a welcome time
A pause from routines, a rhythm so sublime
It lifts weary spirits and eases the mind
Leaving daily worries and stress far behind BHAGWANJI BHINDI Laucala Beach Estate, Nasinu
Bondi shooting
JAN Nissar says “Bondi Beach attack was because of long festering religious bigotry and hate”. If Jan Nissar is speaking about Gaza, then he should not forget about October 7. I have seen on ABC TV people protesting with anti semitic and pro Palestine flags. When the Jewish people came out with Israeli flags, they were arrested by police. This is happening in Europe. It is called appeasing a community. It is also a fact that Western countries have and are using Islamic radicalism against countries like India etc and then lecture them on human and minority rights. Jan Nissar is not happy about Modi Government’s internal clean-up of 0.5 front war presently going on after the Delhi blast. PM Anthony Albanese of Australia has begun talking about “more could have been done to protect the Jewish community” and toughen laws on hate speech etc. On Thursday I went to watch the second day Ashes Series between Australia and England at Adelaide Oval Stadium. The security has been tightened with the search of carry bags, backpacks etc. Australia’s liberalism may slowly come to an end. RAKESH CHAND SHARMA Adelaide, Australia
LETTERS OF THE WEEK
1/9/25 – 7/9/25
Housing and land packages
I SAW that the Housing Authority is offering house and land pack- ages. These are supposed to be 2-bed- room houses on their own with a piece of land. Why is the Authority building larger housing complexes and issuing strata titles instead? We already have limited land in the Suva Nausori corridor. You can offer a lot more houses if you build apartments and then sell them as strata titles. Housing Authority needs to start thinking smarter. KIRAN KHATRI Samabula, Suva
8/9/25 – 14/9/25
Accessibility in public buses
I WISH to highlight the challenge many passengers face because of the high steps on public buses. Elderly citizens, children, and people with disabilities often struggle to board safely. Public transport should be inclusive and accessible to all. Kindly urge the authorities and bus operators to introduce buses with lower steps or proper hand rails. These improvements would ensure a safer, fairer, and more user friendly transport system. ADITI PRANJAL DEO Suva
15/9/25 – 21/9/2
Do two wrongs make a right?
SOME time ago a primary school student who reportedly bunked school got killed in an accident in Nabua. The driver of the vehicle got beaten up by bystanders and motorists in plain sight. That driver mysteriously died later the same day. Have the people who assaulted the driver been caught and charged? Or have the two wrongs somehow made a right? Just a few days ago, a video made the rounds on social media showing a man in vest and some other people assaulting another man for causing an accident around Vuci, Nausori. Again, we wrongs seem to have made a right. Countless other examples exist but I’m not writing a full page here (yet). It’s not hearsay. Videos are out there. Have we as a nation be come complicit with criminal behaviour? DONALD SINGH Suva
22/9/25 – 28/9/25
Filthy arena
THERE is no doubt that portions of the social media environment are covered in deep filth. Just like the presence dirt attracts flies and other disease spreading pests, there are specific Arenas where like-minded individuals converge to present evidence that societal values are indeed going down the sewer system. Given the vast ocean that social media has be- come today, a morally educated mind would immediately steer clear of filthy substance but giving prominence and relevance to low grade content has become a challenge. I guess, they are passengers in the same boat. MOHAMMED IMRAZ JANIF Natabua, Lautoka
29/09/25 – 5/10/25
New babysitter: TikTok
LET’S all take a bow, Fiji. We’ve done it. We’ve cracked the code of modern parenting. Forget discipline, forget family. A seven-year-old boy learning “how a boyfriend teaches his girlfriend to shave”. Another seven-year-old boy was searching “ek ladki ki keemat kya hal” (translation: what is the value of a girl?). Oh Yes, top tier education, right there. Forget kindergarten, who needs it when TikTok university is open 24/7? And yet, we act shocked when UNICEF and Minister Sashi Kiran warns us about neglect and abuse being rampant in Fiji. Do we really need UNICEF to tell us what’s right in front of us? Our children are being abandoned to screens while parents compete for who can stir the grog the longest on gossip the loudest. But hey, let’s not complain. With TikTok doing the heavy lifting, we should give it official recognition. Maybe our next Constitution re- view should add “Right to Unlimited Screen Time under the Bill of Rights. Or perhaps the Ministry of Education should update the curriculum: TikTok for Year One, Instagram for Year Five, Snapchat for Year Seven. By high school, they’ll graduate with PhDs in scrolling. Sarcasm aside, this is our reality children learning values from strangers on screens because parents are too distracted. If we don’t wake up now, the next generation will not only question what a girl’s value is they’ll also ask what a parent’s value ever was. ASHWINI BASANT Nausori
6/10/25 – 12/10/25
Sugar, bailout, float questions
THE Fiji Sugar Corporation Board chair Nitya Reddy has told the PM that a $500m bailout from Government will help the FSC stay afloat. Reddy’s desperation can’t be hidden when he tells the PM “Hail, rain, storm, beg, borrow, steal. We need that share if we want to revive the industry”. You can’t suggest stealing, Reddy. Mr Reddy, let’s say Government provides you with the $500m capital injection. What next? Will you suddenly start growing sugarcane and producing sugar like we used to do some decades ago? I have come answers, but this is for you to ponder. How can a $500m bailout request be termed a capital injection? FSC’s loans will undoubtedly be paid off with Government money, with some money to spare. How about the current state of the sugar mills? One got its carcass sold for cheap, another just got paralysed and is out of action, the biggest one is limping and the one up North is not getting any younger. Will the FSC suddenly have a lot of revenue and funds at its disposal to encourage current and new farmers to plant more cane? I have more questions but I’m not writing a full page (yet). We need the right people with the right ideas and innovative minds to salvage the sugar industry. You see those derelict ships out there in the harbour? They will cost millions to dispose. Sunken ships cost more to salvage and restore than even the value of those vessels. FSC’s total value of assets after depreciation is likely way less than the $500m bailout Reddy is asking for. So the Government would have to be out of its mind to inject $500m in something that is valued lower. Mr Reddy, I cannot sanitise the truth, in your words. Please stop making wild requests or maybe stop reading prepared speeches. Understand the situation and context first please. I’m glad the PM didn’t buy too much into that and suggested that a Cabinet paper from the Sugar Minister is needed and then they will look at ROI and sustainability issues first. In a fair debate situation, the likes of Reddy won’t last five minutes with me. Reddy at the helm could lead us to a different kind of bailout. And yes, this is not a political letter, rather a logical one. DONALD SINGH Suva
13/10/25 – 19/10/25
Troubling sight!
I’M currently visiting Fiji’s charming old capital, Levuka, a town rich in history and colonial character. While soaking in the unique atmosphere that Ovalau offers, I came across a striking yet troubling sight: the derelict Sinu-i-Wasa III, still stranded on the shoreline nearly a decade after it was washed ashore by Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016. The rusting vessel sits directly in front of the picturesque Ovalau Holiday Resort, a jarring contrast to the natural beauty of the area and a constant reminder of government inaction. It is not just an eyesore It poses a real environmental and safety risk. With another cyclone season fast approaching, the danger of the ship tipping or breaking apart grows, threatening further damage to the coastline and marine environment. This situation reflects years of neglect from both current and past administrations. It raises a difficult but necessary question: Would this have been allowed to remain if it had happened on the Nasese foreshore in Suva? It is time for the Government to step up, show leadership, and remove this wreck before it causes even greater harm. DEPESH RAMANLAL Varadoli, Ba
20/10/25 – 26/10/25
Public relation training
I FULLY support the suggestion made by Asish Vinay of Raiwasa (FT 19/10) that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) should introduce customer relations training for all public service vehicle drivers, especially bus drivers. As a regular passenger, I have often encountered one particular driver who is consistently rude. On one occasion, he made an offensive remark about my religion on a church day. At another time, a driver of the same bus company told passengers to find another bus if they did not like the wet seats — even though it was the only bus available for that route. Such behaviour is unprofessional and reflects poorly on the image of our public transport services. Customer relations training would help drivers better understand the importance of respect, patience, and professionalism towards every passenger. It is time our transport system prioritised not only safety and schedules but also courtesy and public respect. PECELI ALISTIR Waitolu, Naitasiri
27/10/25 – 02/11/25
Litterbugs everywhere
IT is heartbreaking to witness how rubbish pollution has become an everyday sight across our islands. It seems that littering has become a second nature to many, with little thought given to the harm it causes. From roti wrappers to disposable diapers, our country roads, streets, drains, and beaches are now littered with waste that was once unthinkable in the “Beautiful Fiji” we proudly called home. What has happened to our sense of responsibility and pride? The simple discipline of placing snack wrappers or empty bottles into the bins provided has faded. We cannot keep blaming authorities when the real change must start with each of us. It’s time we restore Fiji’s true beauty by taking personal responsibility for our environment one wrapper, one bottle, one act of care at a time. PECELI ALISTIR Waitolu, Naitasiri
‘No perpetrators’
THE Truth and Reconciliation Commission Act ” does not consider anyone a perpetrator ” Commissioner Sekove Naqiolevu informs us ( FT 19/12 ). That says a lot about the absurdity inherent in the Act. Atrocities happened left right and centre in the coups in Fiji and there are “no perpetrators”. What a Kafkaesque joke! Now I can better appreciate what Charles Dickens meant in Oliver Twist when he wrote “the law is an ass”. It certainly seems to be the case in regard to the TRC Act. RAJEND NAIDU Sydney, NSW, Australia
Deadly cost of feminism
THE alarming surge in violence against women in Fiji demands urgent scrutiny. Recent reports paint a grim picture. A 2024 study reveals 71.6 per cent of Fijian women have endured domestic violence, while 2025 data shows a near-doubling of cases against elderly women to 122, alongside rising digital abuse. On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, as Fiji grapples with one of the world’s highest gender-based violence rates, we must confront uncomfortable roots, particularly how imported waves of feminism have eroded traditional male protections, fostering resentment, chaos, and a deadly backlash. These harmful waves of feminism — second and third wave crusades against “patriarchy” must be strongly condemned. Global research shows they destroy society at its seams, emasculating men by branding assertiveness and protectiveness as “toxic,” leading to confusion, resentment, and disengagement from roles as society builders, protectors, and leaders. Studies link this fear of emasculation to misogynistic backlash, increasing male violence against women as displaced men lash out amid women’s gains. Worse, it breeds apathy: anti-feminist beliefs foster bystander reluctance, where male onlookers, fearing sexist labels, fail to intervene in assaults, amplifying women’s vulnerability. In Fiji’s communal culture where men once served as familial guardians, rooted in vanua traditions of mutual protection, this Western import, spread via aid and media, has shattered those bonds. Feminism’s push for independence frames intervention as paternalistic, dulling chivalrous instincts and weakening commitments through no-fault divorce. Pro-feminist “allyship” rings hollow when men feel unneeded, withdrawing entirely and fuelling isolation-driven violence. Fiji’s patriarchal bargains must evolve, not shatter. True equality demands culturally attuned education to rebuild male confidence, honouring protection without dominance. Let’s prioritise dialogue to curb this tide before it drowns more lives. MELI MATANATOTO Nadi
Pensioners cry for justice
IN Fiji’s recorded history, one day it will be written, one of the greatest travesties of betrayed pensioners’ justice will be the illegal reduction of pensions owed to several thousand senior pensioners pre 2011 – our hard-earned life savings. The then FijiFirst government under Voreqe Bainimarama, and his attorney-general – minister of Finance Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. The illegal FNPF Decree by an unelected government rendered the then FNPF Board to buckle under the weight of dictatorial powers of the two leaders . This forcible reduction of pension is deemed fraud. This is a crime. Who is answerable? Who is to be found guilty in this gross miscarriage of justice to the more elderly citizens in Fiji? We are human. Aren’t we allowed to live our twilight years in peace and die happily? When justice is denied, there is no peace. We too needed to live, mortgages to pay etc. This was severely curtailed, more cruelly and shamelessly all the name of power. Fiji’s pioneering pensioners had their just dues halved some even more. This was an act beyond all levels of cruelty in their retirement years. Stealing the elderlies’ “roti” is a despicable act in any language. “Do unto others, what they have do unto you.” “Thou shall not steal.” The Lord says: “What you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me.” To Bainimarama, do these pieces of scripture, ring a bell in your ears? I ask you these pertinent questions on behalf of my affected and betrayed “sisters and brothers” in Christ. We suffer today. This betrayal happened in broad daylight 14 long painful years ago. It lives on via your illegal authority and FNPF Decree in your reign as an unelected government. Many thousands were forced to accept their illegally reduced pensions. Equally, many thousands, after several months, out of dread and fear of greater impending loss, were forced to take lump sums. We are the ones who suffer the greatest since. The hardships, pain, suffering, hurts and betrayal, in our twilight years cannot be over stressed. For them I lend my voice. We beg justice to come as soon as practically possible. The FNPF today constantly and publicly declares it has a portfolio in excess of $12billion. In excess of $8billion belongs directly to the members alone. We betrayed pensioners helped contribute handsomely too. Without founding members, there is no FNPF. The current FNPF Board is heartless. It lacks modern day empathy, compassion and the corporate will to right the gross wrongs of yesterday. It holds on to the law. What law? Why? It was Bai and Kai’s illegal FNPF Decree. Their government was not elected. Our days in mortality are very well numbered. It is our opinion, the FNPF Board wants to “run the clock out” — await our demise. Many of us are in our 70s and 80s today. At least one is 91 today. The aggravated infliction of needless pain and suffering to us, about 1400, makes no sense. Come on Fiji Human Rights; Fiji Anti-Discrimination; Fiji Law Society and all our right thinking seasoned senior politicians and respectable legal experts, please lend us your ears. Have a heart. Does your conscience not prick you? We were robbed. We plead justice, without delay. To our elected better politicians, your silence is deafening. Some of us erred big time giving you our votes. The former PM and minister for finance and his appointees in the FNPF Board procrastinated. Procrastination is the thief of time. They have absolutely no politic will to do the right thing. They continue to fail us miserably. An immediate political solution is the best way forward, in my view. Time is fast running out on us. Our numbers are dwindling. We now lean on our Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to now rise up and be the true champion to our cause, for justice, the elderly betrayed pensioners. This is your moment. We count on you. RONNIE CHANG Martintar, Nadi
Waste oil disposal
YOUR paper seems to have a sharp eye. That waste engine oil disposal in the drain at Jai Ambamma St couldn’t possibly have happened overnight and it doesn’t look like a one-off case looking at its severity in the photo. I read somewhere that we are quite big on climate change and environment matters on the global stage. Let’s skip the next COP and focus on the home front first. DONALD SINGH Suva
War on drugs
FIJI is evidently losing the battle against the rapidly expanding narcotics trade. The fact that the military is now being floated as a solution speaks volumes about how badly the situation has deteriorated. Brigadier General Manoa Gadai’s suggestion that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces step in is not reassuring, it is an indictment of failed institutions. Our Police Force, already suffering from a crisis of credibility, has proven incapable and helpless of containing Fiji’s meth epidemic. Public confidence has been shredded by repeated allegations of senior officers being entangled in the very trade they are meant to suppress. Yet the COMPOL asserts that he will “stand by his men”. Freaking serious? Violent and drug-related crime is rising at an alarming pace. Residents now openly refer to places like Lami as a “meth centre,” a label no community should ever have to carry. When law-abiding citizens begin calling for soldiers on the streets, it signals not panic, but desperation and a complete loss of faith in civilian policing. If the military is indeed the last line of defence, then hesitation at the top is unacceptable. Major General ro Jone Kalouniwai’s silence in responding promptly to Brigadier General Gadai’s offer of assistance is deeply concerning. Fiji does not need delays or indecision. It needs leadership, direction, and action urgently. And if we are serious about restoring trust and unity, perhaps that same decisiveness could also be applied to addressing some unfinished business from the past, including the long-overdue apology by the RFMF to the Indo-Fijian community for the legacy of the coups. As I recall, Major General Kalouniwai was considering a “structured and culturally respectful” engagement with the vulagi community. How is that working out so far? He must be planning something very special for the Indo-Fijian populace, hence the long, excruciating delay. NISHANT SINGH Lautoka
Religious extremism
IS radical Islam the same as radical Christianity? In the aftermath of religiously framed violence, it’s often claimed that radical Islam and radical Christianity are essentially the same. The intention behind this view is usually fairness and a desire for social harmony. Yet fairness also demands clarity. All forms of religious extremism deserve condemnation. But condemning violence does not require us to pretend that all radical movements are identical in origin, theology or impact. At their worst, both radical Islam and radical Christianity arise when faith is stripped of humility and repurposed as a tool for power. Sacred texts are selectively quoted, context is ignored, and violence is justified as moral duty. In this sense, violent extremism reflects a recurring human failure rather than the true heart of religion. However, similarity in method does not mean sameness in substance. Christianity is anchored in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, whose message consistently rejected violence as a means of advancing God’s purposes. Loving one’s enemy, forgiveness and peacemaking are not peripheral ideas, but the moral centre of Christian faith. Violence committed in the name of Christianity stands in direct contradiction to the example of its founder and has historically relied more on political or nationalist ideology than Christian theology. Islam presents a more complex internal challenge. The Koran contains passages revealed in times of both peace and conflict and Islamic jurisprudence historically addressed warfare within specific contexts. Radical Islamist movements selectively draw on these traditions to claim religious legitimacy for violence, oppression and mayhem. Many Muslim scholars strongly reject such interpretations, yet the debate remains active and deeply consequential. This distinction isn’t a judgement on Muslims. The vast majority reject violence and are themselves among the primary victims of extremist ideology. Rather, it recognises that Islamist extremism has produced organised, transnational movements seeking to impose theocratic rule beyond national borders. There’s no contemporary Christian equivalent operating at this scale under explicit religious doctrine other than remnants of KKK and a few other cults. Recognising these differences isn’t divisive. False equivalence obscures reality, silences reform voices and ultimately serves extremists. A mature society must be able to condemn all religious violence while speaking honestly about its different sources. Clarity is not intolerance. It’s the foundation of meaningful dialogue and lasting peace. COLIN DEOKI Australia
3i Atlas
WHAT will they say about 3i Atlas, when it’s at closest today. Is it natural or intelligent? Definitely a riddle and a mystery from beyond our solar system hurtling through space in its journey to leave more questions and no solutions. EDWARD BLAKELOCK Admirals Circle, Pacific Harbour
Swinging into history
I CONGRATULATE 21-year-old Raina Saanvi Kumar for achieving what no other Fijian woman has done before her. The Nadi golfer became the first female player from Fiji to earn an official world ranking, a breakthrough that has placed her firmly on the international radar and positioned her as one of the country’s most promising young athletes. This is a huge achievement for a local golfer, and she has just provided a dose of inspiration to those girls and young women who would love to pursue a career as a golfer. She was introduced to the game by her father and the support at home shaped her early interest and nurtured the discipline that she carries. Raina’s rise in golf has been steady, hard-earned and marked by significant wins. She stamped her marked, winning this year’s Fiji Open, Fiji Golf Classic, Denarau Open and the Denarau Golf Club Championship. Raina represented Fiji at the 2017 Pacific Mini Games, winning a bronze medal. Raina is an exceptional golfer who balances her sporting commitments with the demands of medical school. Although it becomes hectic and difficult, she balances things. I wish her all the best, and I’d love to see her making headlines the way Vijay Singh used to make and do Fiji proud by winning international events. Go, go Raina! Fulfil your dream! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Balgovind Rd, Nadawa, Nasinu
Fijians make the top 100
CONGRATULATIONS to Jiuta Wainiqolo and Josua Tuisova for making it into the Rugby Pass Top 100 Rugby players of 2025. Considering the wealth of talent in the world, to be nominated in the top 100 surpasses any prior accolades received by the players. On the brighter side, how did Rugby Pass do the ranking. Because the two players would have easily made Top 10 or 20. Anyway, Toso tale boys ! SOWANI VITO Nailuva, Ra
The life of Jesus
ON December 25, 2025 the Christian world will celebrate the festival of Christmas to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is important to focus on the life and mission of Jesus which is centered on His role as the son of God, who came to Earth to reveal God’s love, establish the kingdom of God, and bring salvation through His teachings, miracles, and resurrection. Jesus was born to virgin Mary in Bethlehem fulfilling the prophecy of Messiah. His humble birth in the manger symbolises God’s closeness to humanity. At the age of 12 He amazed teachers in the temple with His wisdom. He lived a simple life in Nazareth until beginning His ministry around age 30. Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. Thereafter, He spent 40 days fasting in the wilderness, resisting temptation. Jesus preached love, forgiveness and the coming of God’s Kingdom. He performed miracles: healing the sick, feeding thousands, calming storms, and raising the dead. Through His parables (e.g. the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son) He taught compassion, justice, and right relationships. Jesus was crucified under Roman authority. He died to atone for humanities sins. On the third day He rose from the dead, confirming His divine mission. Forty days after His resurrection, He ascended into heaven, promising the gift of the Holy Spirit to His followers. Jesus’ mission was to reveal God’s love. Jesus embodied God’s compassion, showing that divine love is for all people, regardless of status and background. His mission was to establish the Kingdom of God on earth by creating a new way of living: justice, peace and love in the right relationship with God and others. Jesus fulfilled a prophecy in the Old Testament:. His life, His death and His resurrection proved that He was the messiah. By His sacrifice, Jesus opened the way for humanity to be reconciled with God and& receive eternal life. Jesus depicted the model of holiness. He lived as the perfect example of obedience, humility and service, calling His followers to imitate Him. The world is torn apart on religious grounds. However, let humanity learn from the life of Lord Jesus Christ and spread His message of goodwill. May I wish everyone a Merry Christmas! DEWAN CHAND Namadi Heights, Suva
Our children, our responsibility
THE increasing number of school children found loitering unsupervised in our towns, cities, beaches and seacoasts during school holidays is deeply concerning and demands urgent attention. While children’s rights must always be protected, these rights were never intended to replace parental responsibility or weaken supervision. Over the years, mixed messaging has created confusion. Parents were encouraged to respect children’s rights, yet now the public is asked to report unsupervised children through the Child Help Line. This contradiction has contributed to a culture where some parents feel powerless and some children believe there are no boundaries. Children roaming freely, during day, especially after dark, are exposed to serious dangers, abuse, exploitation, accidents and criminal influence. When such situations occur, welfare-based intervention is necessary, but firm accountability is equally important. Parents and guardians must be clearly reminded that supervision is not optional; it is their legal and moral duty. Authorities, schools and communities must work together to restore balance between rights and responsibility. Protecting children requires clarity, consistency and decisive action, not confusion and delayed responses. If we fail to act now, we risk failing an entire generation. Children’s rights must be reconsidered, not to be abused by them. Social Welfare must act now to create awareness and limit rights. INDAR DEO BISUN Sakoca Heights, Tamavua,Suva
News, but not news
I HAVE been saying it for a while now, but now that the minister has said it, everyone will believe it. Work is available, only our people don’t want to work. Even if they do get recruited, they still don’t want to come to work, and Minister Singh has now realised that the Monday fever is real. The positive thing is that the minister is listening. DONALD SINGH Suva
Fijian Drua merchandise
THE Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and Jack’s of Fiji continued their partnership and officially unveiled the Drua’s new merchandise range for next season’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific. I watched in fascination as the new jersey was launched, and I’m equally delighted that the new jersey reflects the continued evolution of the Drua, a franchise that has shown huge improvements since their debut in 2022 where the side finished the season at 11th place with 12 points and two wins against the Melbourne Rebels and Moana Pasifika 31-26 and 34-19, respectively. In 2023, the Drua finished seventh with 26 points and six incredible wins, making it to the quarter-finals just in their second season. The Drua bagged wins over the Moana 36-34 and 47-46, Crusaders 25-24, Rebels 38-28, Hurricanes 27-24 and Reds 41-17. The side lost in the quarter-finals to the eventual champions, the Crusaders 49-8. Last year, the Drua finished seventh with 26 points and six fantastic wins, making it back-to-back quarter-finals. The Drua outclassed the Crusaders 20-10, Waratahs 39-36, Force 31-13, Moana 24-17, Reds 28-19 and Rebels 40-19. Once again, the Drua lost in the quarter-finals to the eventual champions, the Auckland Blues 5-36. This year, the Drua’s performance was disappointing as the side finished last with 20 points and four wins. The side failed to make the quarter-finals. The Drua beat the Chiefs 28-24, Waratahs 28-14, Reds 36-33 and Force 38-7. Now with the pre-season preparations hitting the mark, fans are expecting to see a revamped and rejuvenated Drua side ready to unleash the Fijian beast. Hence, the new jersey captures growth and continuity, which reflects the Drua’s momentum, which is built on shared values of pride, passion, and national identity. RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Balgovind Rd, Nadawa, Nasinu
Serevi in politics
THE Maestro, the legend, the best ever in the world in sevens rugby, an idol for everyone regardless of race, a name still revered by sevens commentators the world over, and I’ve run out of words already. If Waisale Serevi does enter politics, he will have to read written speeches loaded with rhetoric and agendas he may not fully believe in. Depending on what scripts he uses under which party with whatever agenda, he may start losing a lot of his fans who may have other political and ideological inclinations and affiliations. However, all the best to the humble man, the superstar in his political aspirations. He is currently everybody’s champ, it’s a matter of when the Maestro decides to vie for political stardom (maybe) or, to remain everybody’s champ, embedded in the pages of history and archives. However, still, if a political party wins the election on Serevi’s popularity, Serevi should be made prime minister. Period. Serevi’s conversion from the touchline in that do-or-die (15s) Rugby World Cup 1999 qualifier versus Samoa remains my top Serevi moment. Another conversion now, to politics, somewhat makes me think. DONALD SINGH Suva
Drop in TV service
I WRITE to raise a concern about the continuous decline in the standard of television services in Fiji, particularly under the management of FBC. Before the FijiFirst government came into power. The nation depended mainly on Fiji One. Although it was a single channel, the content was meaningful, entertaining and relevant to the people. Major sporting events, especially the IRB 7s series were broadcast live, allowing the whole nation to unite and celebrate out love for rugby — a sport that defines us as Fijians. Today, despite having several FBC channels, the quality of programs has significantly worsened. Most of the content is repetitive, boring and lacks entertaining value. There is nothing engaging for students who are currently on their long vacation. Instead of productive and enjoyable programs, citizens are forced to endure the same recycled content everyday, which has created dissatisfaction. Even worse, major international rugby tournaments such as the Dubai 7s and Cape Town 7s were only available through expensive Sky Plus subscriptions. However, the public was only allowed to watch Fiji’s games and denied the rest. Most ordinary Fijians simply can not afford this service which is unfair to a nation that has brought so much pride to the world through rugby. This is a clear failure on the part of FBC. Citizens deserve quality programming, access to major sporting events and media services that truly reflect and respect the interest of the people. It is time for the government to take immediate action by reviewing FBC operations, improving content quality and ensuring that major national and international events are made freely and accessible to the public. Silence and inaction will only deepen the publics frustration. I trust that this matter will be taken seriously. NADE BOSLEY Vukasa Rd, Nasole
Breaking barriers
SALOTE Drauna’s story (FT: 19/12) is one to read and share, thanks to Nacanieli Tuilevuka and The Fiji Times People column. After the Letters to the Editor column, the People column is a favourite for me and many others as stories educate, inform, inspire and motivate readers to attain success and aim for greater heights. Hence, Salote’s story was a celebration of breaking barriers, following dreams, and honouring those who inspired her. Salote, who graduated last week with a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the Sangam School of Nursing and Health Care Education, had to withdraw from school because she was pregnant. However, that did not deter her from achieving her goal as she bounced back and concentrated on graduating. Balancing being a mum and studying was one of the hardest things that Salote had done. She faced challenges, but persevered balancing both demands. Salote was the first in her family to graduate with a degree in nursing. She fulfilled her passion of becoming a nurse. Salote’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of family support. Her hard work and the late-night sacrifices paid off. Salote’s story will lift the spirits of students who are pursuing tertiary studies. Despite the obstacles that she faced and went through, she made it and graduated as a nurse. RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Balgovind Rd, Nadawa, Nasinu
Overtime dues
IT is a shame that 60 medical lab scientists have not been paid for overtime work in the past seven months. On the contrary all the ministers, permanent secretaries and senior officers will be quick to claim their per diem or whatever allowances they are entitled to after their overseas trips or while leaving their stations to serve in another area. RAKESH CHAND SHARMA Adelaide, Australia
Exam results
CONGRATULATIONS to all Year 13 students in Fiji on achieving an impressive 95 per cent pass rate in the Fiji Year 13 Examination. This is a significant accomplishment for the students and a commendable milestone for the nation’s education system. Sincere appreciation is extended to the teachers, parents, and guardians whose dedication and support behind the scenes contributed greatly to this success. To the 5 per cent of students who were unable to achieve the required 50 per cent aggregate in this written examination, it is important not to be discouraged. Alternative pathways remain available, including enrolment in tertiary institutions offering vocational and skills-based programs. Such courses provide valuable opportunities to develop practical expertise and transform personal interests into meaningful careers. It is also worth recognising that skilled trades and technical professions can offer rewarding and sustainable livelihoods. Ultimately, academic results represent only one stage of a lifelong journey, and perseverance, adaptability, and commitment remain key to achieving future success. DINESH KUMAR Ba
Ministerial changes
WHY change the minister of sugar. He and his chairman of the sugar board had exposed past corrupt practices as one of the greatest problems at Fiji Sugar Corporation. Was he replaced because of the promise he made in Parliament that a new sugar mill will be built in Rakiraki if PAP wins the 2026 elections? It would have been better if the PM had reduced the number of ministers in government SUKHA SINGH Labasa
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