Freedom of speech
Nishant Singh, I read your letter “He speaks again” (FT LTE 1/4) in which you express your discontent on the former A-G being given space to talk. Nishant, many people are of the same thought as you; however, I would not try to suggest to the media to stop giving him publicity. In fact the media is not giving the former A-G publicity: the media is freely practising freedom of speech. That freedom belongs to me, you, Mr Sayed-Khaiyum, and everyone else. The fact that you could write about your discontent and the paper let it see daylight is proof enough of the freedom that we all enjoy. We incessantly hear that “every saint has a past and every sinner has a future”. It’s true to some extent. Someone who is fronting the court on legal matters is not tabooed from talking about national issues. Dua ga na bula brother. Let’s learn from the past, from people who may have erred, from people who continue to err, and let’s try not to err ourselves. Let the media report freely. Let everyone talk freely. Because we can. Donald Singh Nausori
Children’s message
Children of the Holy Trinity Anglican Church with their palm leaves as they participated in the Palm Sunday, also conveyed the strong message of “Say No to Drugs” to the world. This message from children must be absorbed by people of all ages. Many crimes and mental illnesses have gripped our nation with drug addicts. Where parents, guardians, teachers, police officers and faith-based organisations have failed to combat the drug crisis, the innocent children’s urgent message delivered on Palm Sunday must not go unheard. SARITA LAL Malolo St, Lautoka
April Fool!
Instead, it turned out to be April Fuel! Donald Singh Nausori
Sudden appearance
In recent weeks, I’ve noticed Members of Parliament suddenly being in the limelight addressing issues in different media outlets. Were they hibernating the last three years? Sobo Wise Muavono Balawa, Lautoka
Rush for fuel!
On Tuesday night when the announcement hit the media that fuel prices were rising, commuters rushed to fill tanks at petrol stations. Photos and videos that were shared on social media by the residents showed long queues as people tried to fill their tanks before the increases took effect. The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) announced that motor spirit (unleaded) and premix would rise by nearly 50 cents per litre, and diesel by almost 75 cents. Surprisingly, the spike came just two weeks after Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka assured the public that there would be no rise in fuel costs. For Fijian families, the rise is more than numbers. This is the beginning of a tough journey. With the rising cost of living, grassroot Fijians will have to dig deep to provide daily needs. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Happy Easter to you all
Easter is a time of joy, renewal, and hope. It reminds us of the beauty of new beginnings, encouraging us to embrace the light and leave behind any lingering shadows. As nature blooms all around us, Easter signifies the promise of brighter days and the triumph of love and grace. This special celebration is not just about traditions or gatherings but also a moment to reflect on the deeper meaning of kindness and compassion. Whether through small gestures or heartfelt connections with loved ones, Easter invites us to spread warmth and positivity in our lives and communities. As we come together to enjoy this season, let us cherish the moments of togetherness with family and friends. Whether it’s sharing a meal, hunting for eggs, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these moments remind us of what truly matters—love, connection, and gratitude. May this Easter fill your heart with peace and your days with happiness. Let it inspire a renewed sense of purpose and faith as we step forward with hope and openness toward the blessings that lie ahead. Wishing you a joyful and meaningful Easter celebration! A warm welcome and heartfelt wishes for an enjoyable stay to all our visitors who have gathered in large numbers to support their respective religious and sporting events in the country. Suresh Chand Nadi
Fiji boxing
I only thought the Miss Universe pageant was wrongly announced, however, in Fiji we had a similar procedure after the winner was announced and later saying it was a wrong result. It is a mockery for Fiji boxing. Judges and organisations, shame on you. Close the show if you can’t handle the true transparent winner. Jaheed Buksh Korolevu, Sigatoka
Horse ride
Time is coming to defeat the increasing cost of fuel for travel. I have a horse and the brilliant idea is to take a ride on the horse to work for free, pay no wheel tax, no third-party, no insurance, no LTA problem and no traffic problem in the morning. I think for a change I’ll try this methodology… haha! Arti Verma Simla, Lautoka
Have a heart
To all those who are very comfortable, well educated and live happily in life, please have a heart. Spare a little compassionate thought for the surviving 1400 betrayed senior FNPF pensioners. They are struggling to cope in their twilight years. Two “dictators” – former heartless FijiFirst government forced this misery on us. FNPF remain obediently uncompassionate for 14 long painful years. The needless USA-Israel war on Iran, only serves to aggravate and exacerbate our suffering. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, you remain our saviour. We count on you. (Knock and the door shall be opened unto you. – Matthew 7:7-8) Happy Easter 2026, Fiji. Ronnie Chang 100% kai Nadi
Who is to blame?
With so many dramas in the and the whole government machinery, there is only one conclusion that can be reached. I believe there is no one and nothing else to blame but the leadership and that includes the chiefs. Whatever is happening in Fiji is a direct reflection of the leaders in the country. And who elected these leaders? So, who is to blame? Jan Nissar Sydney, NSW, Australia
Positive approach
I don’t think we have to complain about the rising fuel costs but rather take a more positive approach towards it for our own benefit. It’s a good time for self reflection and to readjust our lifestyle and expenses. Just take care of all that’s within your means. At least we still have fuel. Pita Soroaqali Tavua
Increasing fuel prices
Assurances vs reality
Recent assurances by the Prime Minister that fuel prices would remain stable provided a sense of relief to many Fijians already struggling with the rising cost of living. However, the confirmation by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) of new fuel prices effective April 1 presents a different reality—one that many households now have to confront with little time to prepare. Fuel price increases do not exist in isolation. They quickly translate into higher transportation costs, increased food prices, and rising expenses for goods and services. For ordinary families, this is not just an economic issue—it is a daily struggle to make ends meet. This is not about placing blame. External factors and global market shifts are often beyond the control of any government. However, it does highlight the need for consistent, transparent, and forward-looking communication. Assurances must be grounded in realistic expectations, and when uncertainty exists, the public deserves to be informed honestly. At a time like this, Fijians are not only looking for explanations but for leadership. What measures are being considered to cushion the impact on low- and middle-income households? How will small businesses cope with increased operating costs? And what long-term strategies are in place to reduce vulnerability to such shocks? Leadership is ultimately tested not during stability, but in moments of uncertainty. Clear direction, proactive planning, and honest communication are essential to maintaining public trust. So the question remains: where is the plan? Radhikash Kapoor Tacirua East
Fuel price hike
I must express that this news came as an unwelcome surprise to me, and, I believe, to many others as well. On March 17, the honourable Finance Minister, Esrom Immanuel, was reported stating, “No fuel price increase before May this year”. Yet, merely a day later, on Wednesday, March 18, The Fiji Times carried a front-page headline featuring the Honourable Prime Minister, accompanied by the declaration, “No fuel price rise”. Given these assurances, it is perplexing that fuel prices have nonetheless increased, with margins ranging from $0.48 to $0.75 per litre. Both the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister had assured the nation that Fiji possesses sufficient fuel reserves for up to 90 days, and that no price adjustments would occur before May. This discrepancy between official assurances and subsequent price increases raises concerns regarding the reliability of such public statements and the clarity of communication to the citizens. What should we expect next? Unexpected price hike for goods and services? DINESH KUMAR Ba
