Test of love RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU YOUR front page story “Test of love” (FT: 02/01) touched hearts. The bond between a husband and wife is a beautiful journey filled with love, understanding, and inspiration. This famous line, “Your love is my anchor, and together we sail through any tide,” serves as a reminder of the enduring love and commitment that defines the relationship between a husband and wife. I read the story of Timoci Valebalavu, who left his job three months ago to take care of his bedridden wife, Cema Adi, with a heavy heart as it brought memories of my wife Madhu Krishna who battled her kidney illness for three years through dialysis and finally gave up on September 24. I recalled the challenges that we faced and what we went through when my daughter Mahika Lingam and I lost her. I salute Timoci who has stood by his wife. He also takes care of his 81-yearold mother who needs care. Life had its own turn when Timoci’s partner was diagnosed with cervical cancer and from September last year her health continued to deteriorate. I urge our loving and caring public to please step up and assist Timoci either in cash or kind or with diapers that her wife needs. To Timoci, you are a role model. Keep going, bro!
Times are hard ARUN PRASAD DILKUSHA, NAUSORI AS we bid farewell to 2025, let me reflect on some of the burning issues affecting us. All studies and reports show that most of our people are living below the poverty line. It has become very difficult for them to meet daily needs such as food, shelter and clothes. The price of food items are going up by the day. Basic items such as onions, potatoes, rice, dhal, oil etc aren’t spared either. As if these were not enough, there is a EFL tariff increase announced with effect from January 2026. It is common sense that when the production costs rise, the price of items also rise. British American Tobacco has already announced a 20 per cent and 40 per cent increase in its tobacco products. The smoker’s pocket will be further lit. The other matter that seriously concerns me is the type of food now consumed by our children in rural and urban areas. Children are moving away from dalo, cassava, roti, bele, dhal etc and are now stuck with noodles. Because of scarcity of dalo and cassava, the price of dalo and cassava are out of reach of many urban dwellers. They have turned to noodles and tinned tuna. It is indeed sad to see our children and adults treating noodles as their staple diet now. Seriously, we can’t blame them as they have to quench their thirst and hunger alike. The reality of the matter is that times are very difficult now. The common adage that one man’s poison is the other man’s food is becoming so true now. Vinaka Vakalevu Times for balanced 2025 reporting and we look forward to the same in 2026.
A call to responsibility NOLEEN BILLINGS SAVUSAVU TO the people of Fiji, as we step into the new year 2026, I speak not only with hope, but with responsibility because this new year demands more from all of us. This is a year that calls for accountability, maturity, and leadership — not only from those in high office, but from every person who carries influence, authority, or responsibility over others. To our leaders of government, those entrusted with power and decision making — this year, lead with integrity. Lead with wisdom. Lead with humility. Remember that leadership is not about position, privilege, or politics — it is about service, truth, and accountability to the people. To our traditional leaders and heads of the vanua — your role is sacred. You are guardians of culture, unity, and identity. This year, guide with fairness, protect your people, and uphold values that strengthen our communities rather than divide them. To our heads of schools, churches, departments, and institutions — you shape minds, morals, and futures. Be present. Be just. Be consistent. Understand that your actions speak louder than your words. To our elders, parents, guardians, and heads of families — this year, let us lead by example. Children learn responsibility by watching us. Young people learn respect by how we treat others. Families become strong when those at the head are disciplined, fair, and loving. We cannot expect our children to behave better than we do. We cannot demand values we do not live by ourselves. Responsibility does not belong only to leaders. It belongs to every citizen. In 2026, let us commit to being: Responsible brothers and sisters Responsible sons and daughters Responsible husbands and wives Responsible mothers and fathers Responsible neighbours and community members Responsibility means: Thinking before acting Speaking with respect Obeying laws and rules Caring for one another Protecting the vulnerable Doing what is right, even when no one is watching When leaders fail, societies suffer. When parents neglect responsibility, children struggle. When citizens ignore their duties, nations weaken. But when responsibility is taken seriously — Families heal. Communities grow stronger. Trust is restored. And nations move forward. Let 2026 be the year we stop blaming others and start owning our roles. If you are a leader — lead responsibly. If you are an elder — guide wisely. If you are a parent — parent intentionally. If you are a citizen — act responsibly. Let us be the generation that chose discipline over excuses, unity over division, and responsibility over convenience. The future of Fiji does not depend on words spoken once a year. It depends on daily choices, consistent leadership, and shared responsibility. As we enter 2026, may we carry our responsibilities with courage, humility, and purpose. May this year be one where we do not ask who should be responsible — but instead say, “I will be.” With hope, determination, and commitment to a better Fiji.
Justice system JIOJI O TORONIBAU NAVETAU, TUNULOA, CAKAUDROVE I FIND justice systems chaotic and a bit like a run down garage to say the least. It just reminds me of what Bob Marley said: “You will never find justice in a world where criminals make the law.” And that is sad ìndeed.
The trash boom – why? SHALVIN SINGH REWA ST, SUVA THE permanent secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael, appears to have concluded that installing trash booms — floating barriers used in rivers, lakes, and harbors to intercept and contain floating waste such as plastics — is necessary for Fiji in terms of its pollution and waste management. As highlighted recently in a Facebook post by Shalendra Singh (https:// www.facebook.com/ share/15w4nULBwB/), Head of USP Journalism, the respected PS needs to explain why he feels that trash boom will address the core issues of Fiji’s waste management crisis. From what I understand, the trash boom is a privately owned company, and the ministry is injecting government funds into this program, which in many ways might encourage a more careless attitude towards waste, with the mindset “throw it, the trash boom will capture the plastic eventually.” My key concern is: Since the trash boom is also implemented in partnership with some large beverage companies, who are globally known to be the biggest plastic polluters, is this just another gimmick that we feel good buying this plastic and throwing it away carelessly, which, for some reason, is heavily promoted by the respected PS for Ministry of Environment and Climate Change? I hope the new Minister for Environment will look into this and also guide the ministry to work closely with partners who are addressing Fiji’s waste management issues in a more co-ordinated manner. As Mr Singh said in his post, we need to address the core issue, rather than carrying out more clean-up. I also hope organisations like the Pacific Recycling Foundation can play a more active role in this issue, as they seem to be making more meaningful progress in Fiji and around the Pacific region.
Farewell Dr Tudravu RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM BALGOVIND RD, NADAWA, NASINU DR Jemesa Tudravu, the permanent secretary for Health and Medical Services, was accorded a solemn farewell. He deserved the farewell, having dedicated more than three decades of outstanding service to Fiji’s health sector. Dr Tudravu led the ministry with loyalty, integrity, humility, commitment, and compassion. He was highly regarded by Fiji’s health fraternity as a silent yet impactful and decisive leader, as a lighthouse and mentor. Dr Tudravu’s legacy and achievements will be remembered by us. His valuable and immense contributions, professional accomplishments, character and the relationships he built will be talked about in years to come. Dr Tudravu’s absence will be felt deeply by his colleagues and those whose lives he touched throughout his career. As PS for Health, he did what he could within his powers. Rest in peace, Dr Tudravu!
Shelter for the homeless NARAYAN REDDY LAUTOKA IT is good to finally see the Government is trying to open shelters for homeless street dwellers. These homeless people need a roof over their heads and they will also need food. Building a shelter for the homeless is good, but providing a job will be better. I helped some homeless boys and girls by providing them jobs and then they started renting, some even built their own houses and are now living a good life. Those younger street dwellers can do wonders in the labour workforce if proper guidance is given to them. Lautoka has about 100 street dwellers and they can be seen sleeping in Shirley Park, in the drains near the children’s park, Marine Dr and in front of the shops opposite the market police post. I remember they were once sleeping on the bus station seats, but since it is under renovation they moved to other locations. If only the business community comes together and employ some of these homeless people. Government can help, but a government-private partnership will be greatly appreciated to tackle the homeless issue.
Happy new year DINESH KUMAR BA ONE of the happiest and most cherished times of my life was the four years I spent living in a traditional iTaukei village as a young adult, where the entire month of January was joyfully observed as vakatawase ni yabaki, the New Year. The celebrations were marked by the splashing of water, the putting of talcum powder over each other’s heads, and the rhythmic beating of drums around the village. Young and old alike took part with enthusiasm, and the atmosphere was one of wholehearted enjoyment and togetherness. It was a vivid expression of community, culture, and shared happiness. The same spirit should continue to bring joy, unity, and renewal to all. May this year be your year of achievements and prosperity. Happy New Year to everyone!
Journey of survival RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM BALGOVIND RD, NADAWA, NASINU AS a journalist, John Kamea has delivered memorable moments. His Excellence in Journalism Award was a remarkable achievement, one that will be revered and cherished by Kamea who has steadily become one of Fiji’s most respected names in journalism and storytelling. Readers admire Kamea’s sharp investigative work, clear writing style and unwavering commitment to truth. He brings stories that would have never been shared otherwise. Kamea’s work often shines a light on voices that go unheard, ensuring their stories reach wider public. One such story (FT 02/01) that Kamea shared was that of 62-year-old Makitalena Yalimai who has spent five decades selling roti at Natovi Jetty. This act symbolises Makitalena’s journey of survival. To her, it’s a humble trade that has sustained her family through the years. It has sent her 13 children to school, paid the bills, and helped put food on the table. Her dedication, resilience and commitment are shown as she wakes up at 2am to prepare her roti parcels and ensure that she reaches the jetty in time to catch the first boat around 6am. Such unwavering commitment is commendable! Her work keeps her physically active. Makitalena is an epitome of a hardworking woman who is independent. Thank you, Kamea, for the dose of inspiration!
Protecting children DENNIS FITZGERALD MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA has introduced a ban on most social media for under 16s, a ban most of them are working to bypass, often successfully. The ban was designed to protect younger children from the many evils that they shouldn’t face, but it seems now to be mislabelled as censorship by the US congress. The Safety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, who is tasked with implementing this is now the subject of a request to attend an interview with Congress members as she is trying “to design and implement a global censorship regime” although her reluctance is likely to lead to contempt charges. Is the reality that this ban will take eyes away from these sites and possibly never return and thus so many ads will be unseen? The main social media companies often seem to be intangible, located somewhere, but uncontactable, able to instantly block someone they dislike, but unable to stop bullying or most offensive material. Something needs to be fixed. It is likely we will see this become far more complex with censorship/protection for specific ages groups likely to be challenged by those affected and those who have lost their audience. Freedom from censorship should be fought for, but it shouldn’t involve innocent children nor the innocence of those children. Rather than condemning the ban that protects the children, the US Congress and the leadership of all countries should consider its implementation as soon as possible.
A matter of life and death SEVECI TORA TACIRUA HEIGHTS THE recent tragic double murder in Sydney, involving Fijian victims, has sent shockwaves through our communities here in Fiji and abroad. This heartbreaking incident, stemming from intimate partner violence, forces us to confront a painful and uncomfortable truth: we are failing our men. Too often, when the idea of a Men’s Crisis Centre is raised, it is dismissed with outdated notions of masculinity — that men should be “macho enough” to handle their problems alone. This stigma is not just harmful; it is deadly. The statistics speak a terrifying reality: a staggering number of suicides are committed by men; horrific acts of violence against partners, siblings, and even parents are predominantly perpetrated by men in crisis. These are not simply acts of evil; they are often the catastrophic end point of untreated despair, unprocessed trauma, and a profound inability to cope. The Sydney tragedy is a grim reminder that unresolved emotional turmoil, relationship breakdowns, and psychological distress do not remain contained. They fester and explode, devastating families and communities. When men have no safe, confidential, and dedicated place to turn, their pain turns inward as self-harm or outward as violence. Telling men to “be strong” and suffer in silence is a recipe for the tragedies we keep witnessing. A Men’s Crisis Centre is not a reward; it is a vital public health and safety intervention. It is a preventative measure. Such a centre would provide: • Immediate 24/7 crisis support: A confidential helpline and safe haven for men experiencing overwhelming anger, depression, suicidal thoughts, or the aftermath of relationship breakdowns. • Specialised counselling: Trauma-informed therapy addressing grief, rejection, jealousy, and aggression, helping men develop healthy emotional tools they were never taught. • Violence prevention programs: Targeted intervention for those at risk of harming themselves or others, breaking the cycle before it claims more lives. • A stigma-free zone: A place that actively challenges the myth that seeking help is weak, reframing it as the courageous and responsible choice for oneself and one’s community. We readily offer support to victims of violence — and we must continue to do so — but to truly break the cycle, we must also address the source. Supporting men in crisis is not about excusing violence; it is about preventing it. It is about saving the lives of women, children, and the men themselves. The need is not just urgent; it is critical. Every day we delay is another day a father, brother, or son may see no way out but through a final, horrific act. Let the memory of those lost in Sydney and in our own homes be the catalyst for change. Let us build a Men’s Crisis Centre in Fiji — not as an option, but as an imperative for a safer, healthier, and more compassionate society.
Untapped potential SELWA NANDAN LAUTOKA ANZ’S senior Pacific economist D. Kristi Sen says “Go big on agriculture.” (FT 1/1). Former minister Dr Mahendra Reddy says there is a lot of untapped potential in expanding the agriculture and mining sectors and we are missing out by not capitalising on opportunities for niche markets for our exports. Meanwhile, foreign based companies — Fiji Water and Aitken Spence — have taken the lead and have embarked on a large scale commercial farming ventures in Fiji. So what is holding us back? We need to quickly identify and address the impediments. Otherwise we will keep talking until the cows come home. For a small and vulnerable economy like ours we cannot afford to waste time and allow opportunities go begging.
Civility, patriotism and morality DONALD SINGH SUVA AS the curtains fall on a truly memorable year, memorable for different people for different reasons, we must take an honest look at where our society stands in terms of civility, civic pride, patriotism and morality. I will leave out the political discussion here. We as a nation have probably become worse with our garbage disposal manners. I cannot avoid talking about the Chow noodles empty packets, water bottles, beer bottles, cigarette packets, food takeaway containers, and snack packets that I collect almost on a daily basis from my driveway outside my gate and sometimes from inside my compound (yes, they chuck them in through the fence). My 10y/o son saw me doing it one morning and he himself actually had a handful of other people’s rubbish to put in the garbage bag I was holding. I told him to wash his hands properly. I can’t talk about the neighbours who do not care if their garbage ends up in someone else’s compound. Drivers would leave their vehicles parked right in front of the driveway partially blocking access, drivers stopping with lights on full beam shooting inside the house while doing their own business and drivers playing loud music in residential areas. Young and old alike playing loud music inside their homes with zero regard for neighbours’ peace is now a culture, and they say culture is almost impossible to change. Then when you drive out onto the streets for usual business, you witness people chucking their rubbish out of vehicles onto the roads. If you happen to drive through or past a flooded road, you see diapers, plastic bottles, food containers and other household refuse floating and blocking the drains. On driver habits, reckless drivers need no introduction here. Then when you step into a school compound or even drive by a school crowd, you notice the total absence of manners in a lot of students of all year levels. Indiscipline is no longer a problem, it’s culture now. The system believes they cannot be fixed with corporal punishment, but through love. Good luck with that. Drugs and crimes also need no introduction here. It would be a potential banana skin discussing who all could be culprits. We have seen new laws enacted, some old laws abrogated while we still can’t see clear on certain laws. We seem to be running out of ideas to keep the population and businesses in check. On some fronts, there seem to be a total breakdown of systems and dilemma and delusion becoming the new order. I didn’t say FCCC. To progress as a nation, we must resolve at personal levels to improve in our own facets of life. I always say to my friends and family that you can tell a person by how he or she disposes his/her rubbish. Parents need to crack the whip at home to bring their children in line because the teachers at school are prohibited from doing so. The teachers are told to show love. Civility, patriotic behaviour and morality are the primary keys to national growth. We need to reset our compasses in the period between the last sun of 2025 setting and the first sun of 2026 rising. Many, unfortunately, will be out of their senses in that very important period instead of recalibrating. Churches, temples and mosques meanwhile can figure out new strategies to bring their flocks to pull their socks. The current systems are not working apparently.
Forward together RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM BALGOVIND RD, NADAWA, NASINU At the start of the new year, our energetic Editor-in-Chief Fred Wesley compiled a brilliant editorial titled ‘Moving forward together’ (FT: 01/01). I agree with Wesley that the arrival of a new year is always a moment to pause, to look forward with hope, but also to look back with honesty, and reflect on the year that was, the challenges we faced, and the defining moments that have shaped us as individuals, as a people, and as a nation. The valuable lessons gained in 2025 should be a guiding tool as we unite towards a better, more stable and more fruitful new year. Living in a multiracial country like Fiji should be a reminder of the need to stay united, respect and love each other, and be kind and tolerant. These values should reinforce our shared identity. We must focus on issues affecting our beloved nation – drugs, violence, stealing, racial and ethnic hatred on social media, littering, housing, cost of living, HIV and AIDS and the list continues. The solutions to these social evils are within our country and we must work together to address them. Enough of finger pointing. Every citizen must take ownership. Let’s become vibrant, thoughtful and resilient. Let’s not give up, but continue to have hope, as alluded to by Wesley that hope remains one of our most powerful motivations as we step into a new year. I’m adamant this hope will guide us forward together. Wesley, thank you so much for the early morning previews, that many of us look forward to every morning! Happy new year!
Commendable police effort NARAYAN REDDY LAUTOKA I REPORTED a break-in at the Lautoka Police Station, and I would like to thank the CID branch forensic team for a very quick response. Within half an hour Corporal Dhiresh, Constable Billings and Sergent Josatiki attended the complaint and took fingerprint samples. The police in Lautoka must be commended for there quick action. The new Officer In charge of Lautoka has done wonders with the quick response time.
