Dakai’s saving grace
Cakaudrove U13 rugby player, Eliakimi Dawai, won hearts when the Vodafone Fiji Kaji/Kajiana Rugby competition concluded last week. His story titled ‘Dakai’s saving grace’ touched hearts (FT: 09/09). I read his journey with a lot of interest as I’m always interested in young player’s successful stories. Eliakimi’s father is now at Naboro Correctional Facility but despite the absence of a fatherly figure, Eliakimi has not bowed down but keen to make a name in the game of rugby. At the tender age of 13, Eliakimi has a story that brings out his determination, resilience, and humility, combined with his eagerness to learn, passion and the ability to listen and respect. His story is one for the history book as it’s a story of many virtuous qualities and the driving will to pursue the game comes from his father’s time at the Naboro Correctional Facility. His father’s words, to put his trust in the Lord and to always think of his siblings and to look after those at home, continue to inspire and motivate him. Eliakimi’s family is thanked for standing by him and for supporting him. I’m glad that the upcoming star wants to join Ratu Kadavulevu School and take a shot at the Flying Fijians jumper. Mark the name Eliakimi Dakai because this name is going to shine soon in the Deans competition. All the best, sunny boy! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Recognising teachers
As Term 3 begins, the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, has rightly called on students and teachers to finish the academic year with focus, discipline, and commitment. With final exams approaching, this is indeed a crucial time to strengthen effort and maintain resilience. The minister’s encouragement to students — to push harder, stay curious, and treat education as a tool for change — is timely. Equally important is his reminder to teachers of their vital role in shaping outcomes through creativity and energy in the classroom. However, while motivation is important, there is also a pressing need to address recognition and reward for teachers who consistently perform and dedicate themselves to their students. Many hardworking educators remain unacknowledged, which often leads to dissatisfaction, burnout, or even migration in search of greener pastures. If Fiji truly seeks excellence in education, it must go beyond calls for commitment and actively invest in its teachers. Recognising high-performing educators through promotions, fair pay, and professional growth opportunities is essential. This will not only retain talent but also inspire others within the system to lift their performance. A strong finish to the school year must also mean a strong commitment to valuing those at the heart of education — our teachers. Indar Deo Bisun Sakoca Heights, Tamavua
$2million gone
Well, well, well… turns out Fiji Airways offers a “fly now, pay… eventually” service? But only if you are flying to the Holy Land with a VIP entourage of politicians and chiefs. Must be a special rewards tier called “Disappearing Dignitaries”. Now that the bill’s gone unpaid, everyone’s suddenly developed amnesia. Funny how silence is the loudest response when money’s involved. Meanwhile, here I am paying actual money, and a ridiculous amount just to get to places like Australia. If I had known there was a secret “fly now, pay never” plan, I would have booked myself a seat months ago! Seriously though, Fiji Airways, the fares are no longer funny. Time to bring the prices back down to Earth. And I hope you recover your lost $2m! Nishant Singh Lautoka
Dinau deal
The so-called Israel pilgrims versus their charterer versus Fiji Airways (and now) versus the Government. Reportedly, over two million dollars dinau is still outstanding, and interest counting. We can say that a proper commercial legal battle is on the horizon. Let’s see who’s got the best commercial lawyers on their side. Meanwhile, the outgoing Fiji Airways CEO could well escape it all, despite the fact of the matter being that the buck was supposed to stop with him for agreeing to the dinau deal. Escape? Will he? Donald Singh Suva
Fiji embassy
Fiji’s decision to open its embassy in Jerusalem instead of Tel Aviv is troubling. While closer cooperation with Israel is welcome, the choice of location shows unnecessary boldness and insensitivity. Jerusalem remains a disputed city whose final status is central to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. The United Nations and the vast majority of nations have respected this reality by keeping their embassies in Tel Aviv. Fiji’s decision, therefore, departs from long-standing international consensus and risks sending the wrong signal at a very sensitive time. Our country has always prided itself on being a fair, balanced, and peace-loving voice in world affairs. We could have pursued strong bilateral ties with Israel without compromising this reputation by locating our mission in Tel Aviv. Instead, Fiji now appears to have taken a partisan position that undermines its credibility as a neutral supporter of global peace and multilateralism. As a small nation dependent on goodwill and respect for international law, Fiji must exercise caution in its diplomacy. In this instance, prudence — not bold symbolism — would have served us better. Sunil Kumar Nadi back Rd, Nadi
Remain apolitical
Dear members of the Great Council of Chiefs, please remain apolitical and leave the political matters only to the voted representative who were elected at the national general election to be the voice of the people in the august house. AREKI DAWAI Suva
Litterbug issue
The Fiji Times editorial comment “Fix those litter bugs” (FT 3/9) needs some strict regulations to fix offenders first. If not, they will continue polluting the environment. We all are responsible for carbon emission, the exploitation of Earth’s resources. All Fijians should be proud of our fascinating and beloved Fiji. It’s our country, for our future and our future generations. Let’s discipline ourselves first. Tahir Ali Hamilton, New Zealand
Grown trees
The road development along the Tunuloa stretch is stalled. Culverts are either washed up or washed away due to the elements. Little did we know about it. When is it going to start up again? But, I guess, as for now, we have reverted to horse tracks again. Jioji O. Toronibau Navetau, Tunuloa
Fire stations
Need more in the Suva area, especially Nabua Town area. The highly paid MPs should look into this with immediate effect. Asish Vinay Prasad Park Rd., Raiwasa, Suva
Fiji’s unity
DPM, Professor Biman Prasad, stated that our strength is unity and it is a beacon of hope (FT 8//9/25). What about political means? Was it not the “poaching” of former FFP MPs’ unity? Was it a beacon of hope for Fiji’s political sphere? Was it an important preservation to harmonise future generations? Or was it for one’s own political survival? In my view, such “unity” is merely a philosophy. The fundamental platform to practically visualise “unity”, I believe, is engaging the “will” of the people. So much so, embracing of UNDRIP, is part thereof. The “transformational changes” of the people’s welfare, would elevate religious, ethnic and political “unity”, in Fiji. For unity in diversity, creates progress. Samu Silatolu Nakasi
Yaqona consumption
There is nothing wrong with drinking yaqona. None at all. “Moderation” is the key word. Many of us; thousands just do not know when to stop. Drink all night. Sleep all day. Neglect parental duties. This is the real problem. RONNIE CHANG Martintar, Nadi
Proposal, rugby and fines
Unproductive issue
I’m deeply concerned about how this Government operates. Some departments seem committed to national progress, while others appear to undermine it. Can ministries with conflicting priorities truly collaborate? The Employment Ministry should balance the perspectives of employers, workers, and Government. Instead, it behaves like a Trade Union Ministry. Though it holds “consultations”, I believe only union proposals are advanced — some so extreme that even the ILO was shocked. One proposal, I believe, forced companies to encourage union membership under threat of punishment — something no country in the world does, and the ILO strongly opposed. I believe another gave officers power to enter premises without a warrant, day or night. Again, I believe no country allows this. It’s more invasive than the Fiji First 2013 Constitution. They also proposed menstrual leave without medical certificates — only seven countries allow this, many as unpaid leave. With periods lasting 3–7 days per month, that’s 36–84 paid days annually. Add 10 sick days, and how will hospitals, schools, hotels, and factories function? What ministry can afford this? Young girls will not be able to find jobs. Obviously, I believe the ministry did not think things thoroughly. They want two extra public holidays, totaling 13 — Australia has only 8.
These and other proposals, including heavy fines, have already driven businesses to close. For a developing country, such laws won’t bring prosperity. They’ll make us unproductive, expensive, and unattractive to tourists and to potential intending investors, and democratic partners. If passed, I believe the Employment Ministry will become the Ministry of Unemployment. The Government must adopt policies that promote growth —not hinder it. This is a democracy. We can vote out those who support such draconian laws. I urge anyone at risk of losing their business or job to reject any MP backing this in the next election. Parliamentarians must act in the nation’s interest. Dinesh Jamnadas Sugar Avenue, Lautoka
Carpenter look alike
Recent news has it that some people copped thousand dollar fines and some jail time for selling loose cigarettes. It’s always assuring to see the law being applied, be it at cigarette roll level. Sitting at home and sipping tea, I often observe youths and kids strolling by to some place, and returning a few minutes later looking like carpenters with their pencils tucked in neatly on the ear. Cigarette roll sale is rampant. DONALD SINGH Suva
All Blacks extend unbeaten run!
Ardie Savea’s 100th Test match at The Fortress was applauded by rugby pundits as the All Blacks 15s beat South Africa’s Springboks 24-17 in the Rugby Championship to extend their Eden Park streak, stretching their unbeaten record to 51 matches. The mouth-watering clash was played in passing rain and under a hail of Springboks’ kicks. Fans were on their feet early as the hosts attacked with ball in hand and clinically, scored tries inside 17 minutes to Emoni Narawa and Will Jordan, building a lead that the Springboks couldn’t break down. Rassie Erasmus’ men looked deadly with ball in hand but were ineffective as they missed opportunities that came back to haunt them. In comparison, the All Blacks 15s defence was excellent at breakdowns and mauls, but the Springboks showed their strength at set pieces from which they scored two tries. In the past tight finishes, the All Blacks 15s looked brittle but at their Fortress they were steady. The visitors had a late chance, but Savea stood like a mountain and won the turnover much to the delight of fans at Eden Park who like me basked in glory! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
