Man with a golden heart
Today marks one year since we lost our beloved community worker Allen Lockington.
As we reflect on his passing, we also celebrate his life and the incredible impact he had on his community.
Unkol Allen was a shining example of love, kindness, and sincerity.
His generosity knew no bounds, and his infectious laughter and smile touched everyone he encountered.
Unkol Allen worked to improve the lives of thousands in our community and where he shared with citizens about living a healthier life.
Unkol Allen left a lasting impact on our community and hearts.
Navneet Ram (TD), Lautoka
Eat the right food!
Kesaia Vakaola, who was this week’s Shopper, had excellent advice for readers — ‘Eat the right food’.
The Moala, Lau, native, who loves maintaining a healthy lifestyle as it helps her keep fit physically, emphasises healthy eating at home.
She ensures that her family has a healthy and balanced menu at home so that they are well when it comes to health.
She urged readers to exercise, eat healthy food and be vigilant of what consumers bought.
She advised readers to plant their own food, as it would assist them save money.
Valuable healthy and handy tips from this week’s Shopper!
Vinaka Kesaia!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Flight MH370
This would be the 10th anniversary of the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370.
This international passenger flight disappeared from radar on March 8, 2014, while flying from Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia to its planned destination, Beijing Capital International Airport in China.
The reason for its disappearance has not been determined as yet.
The families of the 227 passengers and 12 crew who vanished with the plane were still waiting for a conclusive answer as to what really transpired.
We can imagine the pain and suffering you are going through as a result of your loss.
We pray that the mystery is solved sooner rather than later.
Suresh Chand, Nadi
Migration fever
Colin Deoki has expressed various valid reasons “why people leave — (The Fiji Times – LTE 28/1)” with examples and his personal experience.
It is globally accepted that people migrate for greener pastures, job opportunities, follow their children, relatives, friends and coup fears, or may be in fashion.
Some may be celebrating to have migrated while others may be regretting and would like to come back.
They always look forward to the government of the day, to find solutions for many problems in the country.
We all have a role to play to live peacefully in Fiji’s diverse society without fear as we all are Fijians.
So if people have an opportunity for a decent job, a decent education, a decent health care system and security, I feel the migration will be reduced to the country’s advantage.
God bless Fiji.
Tahir Ali, Hamilton, New Zealand
Supermarket service
I think it is important for the supermarket management to ensure marking prices of every items sold in the shop to avoid unnecessary delay and inconvenience to the shoppers.
I don’t know why the workers are so lazy and careless to allow this to happen.
I am prompted to write because not only have I encountered it myself but seen it happening to others too.
This problem needs to be addressed at once because it is spoiling your relationship with the customers.
Time is important for everyone.
Refilling the shelves on a timely basis is another critical issue which must be given preference at all times.
It is also important to see that staff are polite and attentive at the same time.
At the end of the day your relationship with the customers count in the fall and success of your business.
Suresh Chand, Nadi
Not working at all
It is definitely clearer now, more than ever before, the Ben Gollings-Vili Satala “combo” is not working at all.
Die-hard Fiji 7s fans, from here and abroad, were again starved of a “top of the podium” finish at the HSBC Perth 7s admirably won by the Pumas.
They had the full package — 17 tournaments in about 22 months, and still no major win.
What have we to lose?
Time to “retire” both Gollings and Satala.
These ongoing losses, frustrations, humiliation, silent swears and hurts must end now.
Seventeen chances with nothing to show.
FRU must now be strong.
Step up.
Do the right thing.
“Talkers must walk.”
Bring someone better.
Someone who will “walk the talk”.
Ronnie Chang, Martintar, Nadi
Taxi permit scam
A new month.
A new scam.
Welcome February!
SANJEET PRASAD, Mani Rd, Bulileka, Labasa
Failed plan
THE uncensored Fijileaks and Grubsheet, I believe, have failed miserably in their ploy to destabilise and undermine the advancement of the Government favoured by the majority of Fijians.
Perhaps Fijileaks and Grubsheet have to rethink their strategy in the future for the reason that they have to now work hard to convince their followers that their story is authentic and true or otherwise they’ll keep shooting their foot.
AREKI DAWAI, Suva
Scammers
THERE are some local mule working for international money scammers around the place.
I was almost caught in their trap, but I hope the responsible local authority is on their tale.
Nanise Soko, Suva
Stagnant water
There is a lot of stagnant water in Navutu (Lautoka) drain after the rain last week.
Can that be cleared or are the health inspectors of Lautoka City Council awaiting a dengue outbreak?
Geoffrey Chand, Lautoka
Lights an issue
As a public service vehicle driver, driving in the night, I have seen many of the lights not working at the pedestrian crossing and it is a danger to the pedestrians at night.
Some motorists can give pedestrians a heart attack to their office!
Navneet Ram (TD), Lautoka
Those resolutions
Shout out to all those who said they’d start eating healthy and exercising in the new year but have now decided to start during Lent.
Kaila!
Wise Muavono, Balawa, Lautoka
Streetlights
The streetlight at the corner of Totogo Lane, Levuka, opposite Marist Convent School, hasn’t been working for the past two months, plunging the said corner into pitch darkness upon every nightfall since.
Have been told that it’s FRA’s responsibility.
Can the said streetlight be urgently attended to, please, or are we waiting for snow flakes to fall?
Anthony Sahai, Levuka, Ovalau
Say no
Another school year has begun.
Parents and guardians, please keep reminding your children to say “no” to drugs.
Wise Muavono, Balawa, Lautoka
Regroup, focus
My advice to coach Gollings is to regroup the team and focus on their weaknesses.
Well done boys.
VARITEMA TUVUKI, Saru, Lautoka
In search of peace
Human mind preoccupied with ceaseless quest for peace
In search for a state of inner calmness, tranquillity and serenity
But where is Peace?
Is it high up in the misty mountain peaks,
Or deep, deep down in the fathomless sea,
Or concealed in the dense jungle forests?
What is Peace?
Is it a state of enlightenment?
An experience of knowing oneself
A state of balance and understanding
The acceptance of differences
Freedom from fear and violence
What is Peace?
Is it a sense of quietness?
Reflecting calmness and serenity
Absence of violence and aggression
Avoiding conflicts between, among, and within oneself
Is it being “at peace” in one’s own mind?
Meaningless are many holy chants
When every inch of God’s bounteous earth is fought for
Turning it into a burning hell of excruciating pain
Conflicts and wars prevailing
Making peace a distant dream
The grip of ego boosting ignorance, selfishness and greed
Hate for the poor, religion, race dominating;
No peace now reigns almost everywhere!
How can we achieve peace?
Peace is complex and multilayered
Peace is internal and external
Happiness comes from a sense of contentment and tolerance
Forgiving anyone for their mistakes and sins
Solving differences through peaceful and moral means
Conflicts resolved through open- minded dialogue and understanding
Peace created through negotiations and agreed decisions
Building, strengthening through reconciliation and endurance
Making peace with memories
A way to forget our tragedies
Making peace with what was what is, what maybe Is crucial and vital to humanity
Pleasant memories have the potency
To trigger peace
They create vibrations of peace
The mind feels nourished with pleasant thoughts and emotions
When human beings experience peace
Only then they can spread fragrance of peace to others
Let peace prevail on earth forever and ever
So that humanity, society, nation and the world can prosper
Bhagwanji Bhindi, Laucala Beach Estate, Nasinu
Friendly match
Despite not having Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad due to injury, Al Nassr embarrassed Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami 6-0 in a friendly in Riyadh.
There was a lot of hype leading up to this match as it was dubbed as the “last dance” between Messi and Ronaldo, a long-standing rivalry since their Barcelona and Real Madrid days.
However, fate had other plans as Ronaldo suffered a calf muscle injury mid January, which led to the cancelation of Al Nassr’s friendlies in China.
This match had more significance after Ronaldo claimed at an awards ceremony in Dubai that the Saudi Pro League was better than the American Major League Soccer, indirectly taking a dig at Lionel Messi’s FIFA Best Player award.
However, he was proven correct as Inter Miami’s losses to Al Hilal and Al Nassr made it just one win from 11 matches, with their last win coming in September.
Ronaldo is always proven correct!
Raynav Chand, Nakasi
Room for improvement
I refer to the Letter to the Editor (FT 31/01), by Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, yes, I do concur with you about the missing link, that we are missing the services of tauvu master Naca Cawanibuka.
My tauvu Cawanibuka is not only good at elevating the fitness level but the way he motivates and approaches the boys is a fundamental tool of his success.
He is so rich in all aspects, physically, mentally and spiritually.
He can connect all the dots as he has vast experience in doing so.
Let’s chant “bring back Naca, bring back Naca”.
Sekove Vuniwaqa, Nadera, Nasinu
Vancouver and Los Angeles 7s
There has been a lot of negative criticism on print and social media after the Fiji Airways Fiji men’s 7s side lost back-to-back matches against Australia 22-7 and Ireland 24-7 in the semi-final and bronze medal play-off, respectively.
Calls have been made to fire under-performing 7s coach Ben Gollings and have him replaced before the Paris Olympic Games.
Fans are used to winning and the 16-tournament losing streak hurts.
In Vancouver, Fiji has been placed in another tough pool.
The boys are pooled against Argentina, Canada, and Spain.
Canada will be a tough nut to crack on their home turf, while Argentina is in hot form and the team to beat on the circuit.
Spain, which qualified for the Cup quarterfinal in Perth, is improving and will be no push over.
Gollings, his team management and the boys need motivation and psychological boost.
The players fitness levels and body positioning have been questioned by 7s pundits.
Missed tackles, individual play, poor discipline, inability to get the basics right, and decision making continue to haunt our chances of winning a Cup since the Toulouse Cup win in 2022.
The brains at FRU must come together to iron out what is wrong with the 7s team.
Peter Mazey needs assistance from 7s experts to decide Gollings future.
He has had more than enough time but has failed to turn around our misfortunes.
We seriously need to think about a new 7s coach.
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Sevens discipline
I agree with the statements made by experienced former sevens referee Rasta Rasivhenge that the Fiji national sevens team needs to be disciplined in order to win matches when it matters the most.
Under discipline, it does not only mean avoiding yellow cards and red cards; it also means sticking to a game plan throughout the match and maintaining their cool when the going gets tough.
Fiji is one of the most gifted nations in rugby and is the current holders of the Sevens Rugby World Cup and two Olympic gold medals, yet there is no sense of identity shown in their matches.
There is no leader in the team who has the ability to dictate the tempo of matches.
Our golden generation existed when Ben Ryan was in charge, and players like Osea Kolinisau, Semi Kunatani, Apisai Domolailai, and so many others were at the forefront.
It was free-flowing, exciting rugby, with plenty of off-loads and link-up plays.
Now we play to the foreign tune of passing end-to-end, which in some ways is discipline, but not the way Fijians are accustomed to playing.
Discipline for Fijians means letting them express their style of play.
One will never see little kids play slow-paced rugby.
Instead, they anticipate flair and a different dimension of the sport, which is not seen in other teams competing in the series.
Ben Ryan and Gareth Baber were successful British coaches for us because they had the ability to connect with players and their lifestyle.
They stayed in villages during camps and understood why Fijian rugby is the way it is.
Ben Gollings has to do the same if he is to find success with the squad.
He has to let go of the ego he has carried from his playing days.
While I respect his status as a player, Gollings has to learn our way of doing things.
Which is why discipline is not only broken on the pitch, it comes from what players and staff do off the pitch.
I do not see a way that we can defend our Olympic gold medal with the way the team is at the moment.
Raynav Chand, Nakasi
The Fijian experience
Students from Monash University in Australia were treated to a unique Fijian experience by the people of Waivaka Village in Namosi.
The 26 students, who are here on a two-week study tour as part of the university’s Global Immersion Guarantee, presented their isevusevu and were treated to a tour around the village before embarking on a 40-minute hike to the pristine waterfalls of Namosi.
I’m adamant that the students enjoyed the local Fijian cuisine and traditional kava ceremony.
It’s high time we promote our nature and the beauty surrounding Fijian villages — the river, fresh fruits and vegetables, and the friendly Fijians with their big, bula smile.
Fijian villagers living along the coast and the tourism industry will benefit in the long run.
Word of mouth advertising is equally important, so we must treat and look after our visitors well, so that they can promote Fiji by giving a positive impression of Fiji.
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Spy dream
Was it a picture from a spy movie or the game of “spy my little eyes”?
Wow, the presence of the Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in town is neither a coincidence nor a dream.
For now, I am hoping more spy movies involving the CIA is produced in parts of Fiji including the famous waterfalls of Taveuni, the highlands of Viti Levu, Rakiraki, Macuata and Nausori Highlands.
Who knows the next star for a CIA movie might be unearthed in Fiji.
For now, some at home prefer to lay low under the cover of darkness, enjoying a few bags of that famous kava and gathering intelligence through the kakase vibes.
Enjoyable weekend and perhaps another spy movie might spice up the weekend.
Floyd Robinson, Micronesia
FNPF issue
The Fiji Times news on FNPF members that their pension dues on retirement are secured, “Pension payment delays for 35000 workers insufficiency” (FT 31/1).
This is a clear indication that FNPF is monitoring the regulations regarding the members’ eligibility with employers as we all look forward to our well secured funds with FNPF.
This will alert employers as well.
FNPF secures our future.
Best wishes FNPF and the members for 2024 Annual Convention.
Tahir Ali Hamilton, New Zealand
SODELPA drama
The daily drama unfolding within the ethno-nationalist SODELPA camp is swiftly becoming more like a soap opera.
It certainly reminds me of that popular Hindi TV serial “Ghar Ghar Kheli” which used to enthrall Fijian audiences with their relentless internal squabbling.
Now we learn that party general secretary Viliame Takayawa has quashed all rumors of ex-Education Minister Aseri Radroradro resigning (FT 01/02).
Any possibility of producing a Fijian version of “Ghar Ghar Kheli” for our local television viewers?
The resilient Radrodro can play the role of “Karan”.
The SODELPA members can fill in as the supporting cast while our no-nonsense PM can play the role of the serial’s principal antagonist, whose primary motivation would be the malicious destruction of the show’s star.
Definitely Emmy worthy!
Nishant Singh, Lautoka
Tender loving care
THE story of Brittany Nawaqatabu (FT: 02/02), who is a young woman who takes animal cruelty seriously, teaches us the importance of loving animals and taking care of them.
I was amazed with her dedication towards looking after the welfare of animals.
Growing up, Nawaqatabu shared that she had always been surrounded by animals, although she was disappointed with the way domesticated animals were treated by fellow Fijians.
She added that as the years went by, her love for being an advocate for the protection of animals increased and that allowed her to work with the Pacific Animal Shelter and Hospital (PASH) for three years.
The animal advocate paid credit to her mum for encouraging her to keep moving forward despite the challenges of life.
Her mother, who has been her pillar of strength and support throughout the years, encouraged her to finish school, to not drop out and, most importantly, taught her to be passionate with animals.
She urged Fijians to be more compassionate about animals and join with the Government to bring about new laws to protect animals which deserve love and care.
Nawaqatabu’s story has left an impression. It has taught readers the importance of looking after animals.
Thank you, Andrew Naidu, and The Fiji Times for the piece!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Discipline factor
The former Commissioner of Corrections and now Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu seems to be the most disciplined MP of the three SODELPA king makers.
SODELPA leader and Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation and Education Viliame Gavoka is under investigation by FICAC with MP Radrodro being suspended from Cabinet.
I guess Ifereimi Vasu will soon be the custodian for the Ministry of iTaukei, Education, Tourism and Civil Aviation with no pay rise if his leader Gavoka is found guilty by FICAC.
Well as I have said before, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is a master tactician and he always has something up his sleeves ready to implement whenever.
SODELPA is slowly seen on its way to self-destruction and heading the direction of Mahendra Chaudhry’s FLP.
I overheard an interesting conversation over a beer at Denarau amongst heavyweight business owners from Nadi where they were talking politics and the 4.3 tonne drugs hot talk of the bar sidelines.
One of them mentioned that if there was a snap election tomorrow the PAP will win outright majority seats and votes to form its own government with Sodelpa wining 0 seats, NFP 0 seats and FijiFirst 14 seats cause Fijians are now done with its 16 years in government and people do not like the authoritative angry Sayed-Khaiyum.
That’s his right and perception, but could be wrong,
Oh I was dammed shell shocked.
Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi
Art of war
Civilian lives are an important asset of nations at war.
In a war, civilian lives will always be at stake as it is an integral element in the art of war.
AREKI DAWAI, Suva
War on drugs
Thank you honourable Manoa Kamikamica for weighing options to work with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in a bid to wage war against the rising issue of drugs in Fiji.
The CIA, which is the US government’s foreign intelligence service, gathers national security information from around the world.
Securing their assistance will assist in the exchange of ideas, since Fiji has been targeted as the transit point.
The war against any form of drugs must be intensified.
There is a need to address the escalating discovery of drugs.
Security measures must be tight-lipped, and greater community awareness, dialogue, and assisting young offenders will greatly help address the issue.
This is everyone’s fight!
The lives of our young ones are at stake – their health and mind are in danger.
We have a massive challenge before us. It is time we work together to get some semblance of order.
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
FijiFirst tentacles
I believe the FijiFirst government’s tentacles did not even spare the Bababans.
They put an administrator there who has been hanging on to the position for the past 11 years (FT 2/2) depriving the islanders of their freedom and rights.
What a mess they created in their 16-year rule.
What’s happening in Rotuma?
Haven’t heard about them.
Ajai Kumar, Nadi
Education assistance
NGOs assisting students in education as per last number of applications, Fiji Times news “NGOs receive 11,000 applications – school assistance” (FT 29/1) is alarming.
This reveals the problems faced by parents in educating their children.
Unfortunately, NGOs are in a position to assist about a half of them.
There is always a need to help the poor and needy to ensure children do not miss out their basic rights.
I believe we all have our responsibilities and roles to play with the government and all stakeholders to find a solution to such problems.
More so, for parents.
The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.
Education is the key to success, so let it be free and compulsory.
Tahir Ali, Hamilton, New Zealand
Fiery battle looms in CVC clash!
Tigers Lautoka edged the Rooster Chicken-sponsored Ba side 2-1 and grabbed a crucial victory at Churchill Park in the first leg of the Pillay Garments Champion versus Champion series.
Having played and won at Churchill Park last Sunday, this week the Blues have territorial advantage against over the Men in Black which should work in their favour in terms of support.
However, Ba is a wounded lion and would have learnt valuable lessons from the narrow loss.
With a young side, Ba did well and will be gunning for an upset win, while the Blues will do everything to defend their territory and ensure the fire from the Sugar City glows during the return clash and they win their third CVC title. Soccer fans can expect an entertaining, exciting but fiery battle between the neighbours and traditional rivals.
While Ba and Lautoka have gained the much-needed game time before the DPL resumes, I urge other teams to make use of the remaining time and work on their players fitness levels and match fitness.
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
Teachers’ plight
Teachers are showing up at their schools and discovering they’ve been replaced without any communication from the ministry.
This lack of communication is highly irresponsible on the part of the ministry.
Considering the existing teacher resignations and their shortage, if the Ministry of Education continues treating teachers in this manner, it’s reasonable to expect more teachers may choose to resign and explore other opportunities.
The Human Resources Department of the ministry should, at the very least, make a phone call to the affected teachers and update them on their employment status.
It’s important to recognise the emotional impact such situations can have on teachers.
Finding themselves in such circumstances could be very embarrassing and demoralising for these teachers.
It seems that the ministry may not be showing due respect to these dedicated professionals who play a significant role in the education system.
This scenario could have been easily avoided with proper communication from the Human Resources Department.
SANJEET PRASAD, Mani Rd, Bulileka, Labasa
