There is a lot of attention focused on reconciliation efforts by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. Familiar faces from the past have been seen at the venues and have been part of the process of reconciliation, and obviously finding a way forward for the military and hopefully for the nation.
It hasn’t been easy for participants to relive their pain and sense of loss, but there appears to be forgiveness and generally, acceptance of the initiative as a way forward, to discuss the hurt and loss of lives, and the impact on survivors.
But as we reflect on these developments, we cannot lose sight of an urgent issue that has arisen this long weekend – road safety.
Especially as we read about another life lost on our roads.
It highlights the urgency that must be placed on road safety as people prepare to head back home at the tail end of the Diwali long weekend.
A man in his 30s was killed in an accident early yesterday morning in Nasinu after 3am.
According to police, the victim was driving towards Suva when a second vehicle, also driven by a man in his 30s, crashed into his car.
Director Traffic, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitieli Divuana has urged drivers to be vigilant.
As police investigations continue into the accident, we are again reminded about the need for road safety.
This is now an urgent message that must be considered by all drivers and road users.
The accident in Nasinu happened in the wake of another road accident where a Rakiraki man who was on his way home to celebrate Diwali, died on Thursday night at Karavi, Ba.
Salesh Prasad is believed to have lost control of the vehicle he was driving, causing it to veer off the road and land in a ditch.
Police said the accident happened around 10pm and Mr Prasad died at the scene.
The road death toll currently stands at 46 compared with 68 for the same period last year.
So again, we raise the issue of making travel plans and sticking to our road rules.
Let’s adhere to speed laws, consider defensive driving advice, and stay off the mobile phone when driving. Let’s not drink and drive, and let’s show our intention to switch lanes when travelling by using our trafficators.
Let’s use common sense and pull over for a rest break if we are tired.
Let’s be mindful of other road users and stay alert.
Accidents happen because we allow them to. So, let’s plan to arrive safely at our destinations today if we are travelling back home. Let’s commit to making safe choices!
