A happy New Year to you.
Once again, we gather at the threshold of a new beginning. We celebrate life, the promise of renewal, and the enduring power of friendship and community. The arrival of a new year is always a moment to pause, to look forward with hope, but also to look back with honesty. It is a time to 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.
For many, this new year begins with gratitude. Yet it must also begin with humility and remembrance. Sadly, not all Fijians lived to see the dawn of 2026. Many families welcomed the new year with empty chairs and heavy hearts.
As we celebrate, we must also remember them and acknowledge how fragile and precious life truly is.
Reflection is not about dwelling on hardship but about building a strong foundation for the future. The lessons of the past year should guide us as we work toward a better, more stable and more fruitful 2026. There is wisdom in reflection, and strength in learning.
One of the enduring truths about Fiji is that we are a multicultural, multiracial society. Irrespective of ethnicity, gender or religion, we have learned to live together in peace. This is something we often say, but it remains worth repeating, especially in a world where ethnic violence, division and hatred dominate headlines elsewhere. In many societies, conflict and bloodshed have become a way of life. In Fiji, tolerance and coexistence remain our greatest strengths.
New Year celebrations should remind us of who we are and what we value. They should reinforce our shared identity and the respect we show one another, even when we differ.
Globally, however, 2025 will be remembered for events that underline the darker side of humanity. The war in Ukraine continues to cast a long shadow over global peace, while the ceasefire in Gaza serves as a reminder of both the cruelty and the fragility of human life, and the importance of peace talks. These conflicts highlight the destructive power of modern weaponry and technology, and the devastating cost paid by ordinary people. They are reminders of how quickly peace can unravel.
Closer to home, Fiji has experienced its own share of challenges. Political differences and debate have dominated public discussion, particularly around the actions and decisions of the Coalition Government. Governing was never going to be easy. A coalition of three political parties, each with its own leadership, philosophies and support base, was always going to face difficulties. Differing opinions, expectations and priorities do not make for a smooth journey.
Nevertheless, the people of Fiji continue to look to those in leadership for sound judgment and decisions that serve the common good. We expect our leaders to rise above division and act in the best interests of all citizens.
As a nation, we remain focused on critical issues, the need for a vibrant and resilient economy, the growing threat of climate change, and the simple but powerful truth that life is precious and worth protecting.
In these moments of reflection, we are also reminded of the unifying power of sport. Sport continues to act as a bridge across ethnicity, gender and religion. The achievements of the Flying Fijians as a Tier One nation, and the performances of the Fijian Drua in Super Rugby Pacific and Super W, have given us reasons to celebrate together and believe in what we can achieve collectively.
However 2026 unfolds for you, The Fiji Times family thanks you sincerely for your continued support. We hope the year ahead brings good health, opportunity and happiness to you and your loved ones, and progress and unity to our nation. Hope remains one of our most powerful motivations and as we step into a new year, may it guide us forward together.
Happy New Year.
