New parties
For a small nation like Fiji, it’s definitely interesting to see the variety of political party names emerging as the 2026 election approaches. 14 new proposed parties will be vying for the piece of the election pie next year. It’s also fascinating to note how these novice parties shape their identities with such unique and bold names. One intriguing party name that caught my attention was the “Lion of Judah”. It almost appears that this Christian themed alliance is gearing up for something grander (like a crusade or a religious campaign) than a political race! Nonetheless, the upcoming election could be a real mix of fresh perspectives, strategies and concepts, especially with an assortment of new parties entering the fray. Let the glossy manifestos roll out. TD, us two can form the “FKLCP” (Fiji Krok and Lamb Chops Party)”. Nishant Singh, Lautoka
Political interest
Out of the 14 new proposed political parties, I wonder how many of them are borne out of political climate and interests and how many are formed out of anger and personal issues? The Government should review electoral laws and those who cannot contest the total number of allocated seats are to be disqualified from contesting and those who failed to get the 5 per cent threshold are to pay fines. Votes and voices are to be counted and be heard. No more no less. Pita Soroaqali, Rakiraki
An illusion
The resurgence of new political parties’ prior approval does not necessarily mean they find the current Coalition Government’s performance disappointing, as is the perception by a few political commentators. The lure of salaries and perks of being a government minister could be a mischievous incentive to these new political party leaders. That’s my take on this sudden surge. Imagine being in the Opposition and doing nothing but pretending to be a government watchdog, and getting $90,000 a year? And if there’s a lone political party in the Opposition, that leader will get a cool $200,000 cold hard cash. To date, out of those 14 possible parties named this week, I have yet to see any of those leaders speak out, the last two years, giving their solutions to our problems. One of them condemns this Coalition Government in all aspects, but has yet to give a solution. So, what does that tell you then about these wanna-be political leaders? Four words, paisa reh, nai lavo! Choose very wisely. Ben Kush, Nadi
Best response
In my view, the best response would be from the former members who have employed their pole vaulting skills. I suspect they used the green bamboo. Anyway, FFP is dead and gone. So what has happened to its aatma (soul)? Hopefully, it has not changed into a Hindi film type jimoni (ghost). Mohammed Imraz Janif, Natabua, Lautoka
Boarding schools
I call on the Minister for Education MP Radrodro and PM Rabuka to please make way for a budget for security cameras to be installed in all Fiji secondary school dormitories around the country. If they can instantly increase their unplanned shocking parliamentary salary in one day so can they find the money to implement this request for the safety of our children in boarding schools. Toso Viti kei Rotuma toso! Tukai Lagonilakeba, Namaka, Nadi
Pharmaceutical warehouse
A Pharmaceutical warehouse was recently opened at Labasa but so many medicines are still not available. Like Jan Nissar, I think we are blessed what ever medicines we do get are free of charge. Sukha Singh, Labasa
Traffic congestion
Our “stagnant” traffic issues (FT 21/3/25). It began to build up 25 years ago and now, it has boiled over. When the importation of used vehicles emerged, the Government saw it as a “money” making machine, in my opinion. A win-win situation, for both, the government and the people. No one ever thought of a “strategic” economic plan, to control the influx. Unfortunately, in my view, the rate of infrastructure developments were somehow never integrated into the mix. Above all, the same Nausori-Suva-Lami corridor still exists. Only widen with ineffective traffic lights. I believe that the solution is to introduce a railway transport system. Firstly, between Suva and Nausori and thereon. And until they “control” the importation of used vehicles, including those already existing, the same will continue to worsen. There is no traffic jam along the extra mile. Samu Silatolu, Nakasi
