International Day of Older persons – DEWAN CHAND NAMADI HEIGHTS, SUVA
I WRITE this open letter to warmly congratulate the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Honourable Sashi Kiran, for drawing the attention of the Government and the nation that the elderly in our society do matter. Her speech in Parliament was a timely reminder to look at the realities of elderly care in Fiji. This year’s theme: “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action” apparently looks timely and powerful. However, the ground reality is totally different. Tribute to septuagenarians for their wisdom, grace and peace is appreciated. Their contributions to peace and development is also acknowledged. Their inclusion in climate conversation or declaration of the Pacific Ocean as the ocean of peace is deeply appreciated. Elderly in society are the golden bridges which connect the generations and transfer traditional knowledge and skills through storytelling and participating in community events. Grandparents in nuclear families play a vital role in teaching languages, songs and history of their tribe. They act as traditional building blocks for continuation or family connectivity. Our traditional system of looking after our elderly in the family is breaking down as a result of rural-urban migration. Nothing can replace grand parents in a family and the impact they have on grandchildren. In many families old and sick persons become a burden and as a result they are illtreated or neglected or thrown out of homes. As the cost of living escalates it becomes very difficult to look after the elderly. Therefore, it is imperative that the Government steps in to provide appropriate homes for the elderly people. Current Golden Age Homes in Labasa, Lautoka and Suva are highly in -sufficient. This is a caring government and it must act instead of simply pontificating. Where there is will there is a way. Challenges are many and these are reflected in the number of suicides by the elderly or the status on crime against the elderly. These will never go away but we must attempt to minimise them. I regret that the minister did not speak about the plight of the FNPF pensioners as a
glaring example of elderly abuse by a financial organisation. The National Aging Policy is under review and we can certainly hope that something better will emerge on this front. My best wishes to the elderly of Fiji.
Beyond the numbers – SIPA JOAN TORMEAMEA SUVA
THE recently announced 2025-2026 National Budget, themed “Building Security, Stability and Prosperity”, lays out significant allocations and initiatives for our nation’s future. While the figures and promises of reduced VAT, increased social welfare, and boosted allocations for health and education are welcomed, we must look beyond the numbers to their real-world impact on governance and human rights in Fiji. A budget is not merely an economic statement; it reflects a government’s priorities and its commitment to its citizens.
The stated intention to strengthen democratic institutions, promote transparency, and protect the vulnerable through measures like the VAT reduction on essential items and increased support for social welfare recipients is commendable. These steps, if genuinely implemented and monitored, align directly with the human right to an adequate standard of living and access to essential services. The emphasis on clean water and sanitation as a human right, as highlighted during parliamentary deliberations, is a vital recognition. However, the effectiveness of these budget allocations hinge entirely on strong governance and transparent leadership. For instance, the reduction in VAT is intended to provide relief to ordinary Fijians, but its success relies on businesses passing on these savings. The Government’s plan to introduce a VAT Monitoring System and an enforcement task force to prevent price exploitation is a necessary measure to ensure accountability. Without rigorous oversight and transparent processes, even well-intentioned policies risk falling short of their human rights objectives, potentially leaving the most vulnerable still struggling. While increased spending on education and health is critical, the governance of these sectors — how funds are managed, how services are delivered, and how corruption is prevented — will ultimately determine whether these allocations truly translate into improved outcomes for our people. Leaders must ensure that the processes are not just efficient but also equitable and accessible to all citizens, regardless of their background or location. As we move forward into 2025 and beyond, our leaders must remain accountable for the implementation of the budget. Transparency in how funds are utilised, consistent engagement with civil society, and robust mechanisms for public feedback are not just good governance practices; they are essential for upholding the human rights of every Fijian. Let us ensure that this budget truly builds security, stability, and prosperity for all, grounded in unwavering principles of good governance and human dignity.
Tell us about the benefits! – NISHANT SINGH LAUTOKA
SINCE the highly touted opening of Fiji’s embassy in Israel, a nation where Judaism, not Christianity, is the dominant faith, the question must be asked — what tangible benefits has this move brought to ordinary Fijians? Specifically, how many Fijians have actually travelled to the so-called “Promised Land” since the embassy’s establishment? And equally, has there been any meaningful uptick or boost in Jewish all the political fanfare, it remains uncertain whether this decision was made in the true interest of the Fijian people, or whether it simply served as a symbolic alignment with foreign powers. It’s time for our experts and gurus on Middle East affairs (Rajen, Colin, Samu etc) to step forward with facts and offer us an insight on whether this diplomatic milestone has had any real impact on people-to-people exchange between the two nations.
Long wait for justice – MICHAEL SCOTT MORRIS ST., LAUTOKA
MANY thanks indeed for Meri Radinibaravi’s outstanding report on the 2023 Fiji Showcase ferris wheel tragedy. Crusading journalism at its very best! There is really no excuse at all for the disgracefully dilatory manner in which this matter has been handled. The apparent indifference of the responsible authorities is little short of a national scandal. It is plain that Mrs Wati and her family are in urgent need of competent legal advice and assistance. Could Mr Whylie Clarke, as the newly-returned President of the Fiji Law Society not persuade one of his eminent colleagues to offer their services pro bono?
Young mums – TAHIR ALI HAMILTON, NEW ZEALAND
The Fiji Times news “Young girls turn mum” (FT 17/9) reveals that many parents have no control on their children. The Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa’s warnings are an eye-opener for all of us.
Children are often found unsupervised, interacting with their peer groups. They are at risk to be involved in activities unsuitable for them. As we enquire about young girls turning mum, let’s do the same for young boys turning fathers. I believe the religious and community leaders with parents and schools, working in
partnership could play more active roles to solve this crisis. Such abuse affects our children’s education and income potential as they are forced to drop out of school. Work towards making the world a better place for those who live in it after we have gone. God bless us all.
Remove all doubt – JAN NISSAR SYDNEY, NSW, AUSTRALIA
WHY didn’t the PM come out and say anything about the selfie with President Trump and the First Lady in
New York last week and remove all doubt?
Teenage pregnancy – SUMAN LATA BA
I AM writing to express my concern about the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies in Fiji. This issue has become a growing problem that is slowly destroying the moral fabric of our society. It is sad to see many of our young girls becoming mothers at a very early age, losing their opportunities for education and a brighter future. One of the major causes of this increase is the decline in moral values among our youth. Many no longer uphold the principles of respect, discipline, and purity that once guided our communities.
Parents, who play a vital role in shaping their children’s behaviour, are often absent from their lives — either busy with work or involved in endless kava sessions that go late into the night. As a result, children are left unattended, with no proper guidance or supervision. Furthermore, fewer families are attending church or participating in religious activities that once helped to build strong moral foundations. The lack of spiritual guidance has allowed immoral behaviour to become normalised among the younger generation. Without these moral and spiritual teachings, our youth are more vulnerable to peer pressure and risky behaviour.
It is time for parents, religious leaders, and communities to work together to address this issue. Parents must spend more time with their children, set good examples, and instill moral values in them. The church should also play an active role in encouraging family participation and youth counseling programs. If we do not act now, we risk losing an entire generation to the consequences of moral decline and neglect. Let us bring back the values that once made our society strong, responsible, and guided by faith.
Football fever hits Ba – RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU
AFTER almost a decade the highly and much anticipated FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) kicked off in the crazy football town of Ba, which generated a lot of hype and carnival- like atmosphere. This year’s IDC made its return to Ba, sparking joy and excitement among fans who are looking forward to the thrills both from inside and outside the ground. The parent body has included special night fixtures to cater for fans who may be unable to attend daytime matches due to work commitments. To add energy and boost the morale of Ba players and fans, the Ba Football Association celebrated their 90th Anniversary on Saturday that united fans, reflecting the strong support and enthusiasm surrounding football in Ba. Tickets for day one were sold out. This shows the passion within fans to enjoy local football. I’m excited, hoping that the Babasiga Lions will make a clean sweep. Wishing the Lions and the Voice of Football, Raymond ‘The Greatest’ Stoddart, all the best!
Bar none – CHRISTOPHER GRIFFIN PERTH, AUSTRALIA
I’VE lost track of who is in charge of prisons. Would someone provide a roll-call?
Too many – WISE MUAVONO BALAWA, LAUTOKA
SO the Government now consists of a bloated number of 23 ministers and 14 assistant ministers. Ladies and gentlemen, we should ask ourselves, in what way will our tiny island nation benefit from a government of too many Cabinet Ministers? To Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the number of ministers should be decided by practical need and not political reward like you are doing. Sobo!
Public hearings? – MICHAEL SCOTT MORRIS ST, LAUTOKA
YOUR October 6 edition carries an advertisement placed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission giving “notice of public hearings” in Suva. A note to the advertisement states that “the hearings are closed to the public”. I would like to know what kind of public hearing is closed to the public.
Town washing – AMINISITAI TORA NADERA, NASINU
ALL of sudden the Western towns are being washed in this dry weather while many are experiencing water cuts. I am wondering if there is a competition for town washing. Lautoka was not washed for years but soon they started washing, hope this washing can be done once every three months as the smell of urine in many streets is unbearable.
Scams and fraud – AMINISITAI TORA NADERA, NASINU
SCAMS and frauds are indeed a national security threat. We as Fijian citizens should be alert when dealing with unknown people and online dealings. If you are not sure about being safe with these dealings or if one may say payments, I suggest just use the magic word which is “no”. It’s the safest word. It’s free of charge to say “no”.
No option – AREKI DAWAI SUVA
I GUESS there was no other option for the robust heads at Rugby House but to allow a provincial match played on a sand filled pitch.
No sympathy – FARAAZ BAITUL KHAN TOKO, TAVUA
IT is really very sad to see some people on Facebook making fun of other people who are doing strange things in the videos posted. Those persons may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs or maybe suffering from mental illness. But instead of helping and sympathising with them, we end up making
fun of them.
