Bula
THE lead on the front page of The Fiji Times for Saturday, August 31 is about the national truth and reconciliation process. GCC chairman and former soldier Ratu Viliame Seruvakula believes it must involve the military, as it was both a perpetrator and a victim of Fiji’s turbulent political history since 1987. Shedding light on the deep-seated issues within the military and the broader implications for national healing, Ratu Viliame said the military was not exempt from the truth and reconciliation effort. He said soldiers take a sacred oath upon enlistment and experience significant pain when “ordered by superiors to do something they didn’t sign up for”.
And the second story on the front page is about the revelation that Vanua Levu’s mahogany plantations are worth $745million. Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima said the total mahogany plantation area for Vanua Levu was 16,713 hectares. The harvest and sale of these logs will fetch $298 per cubic metres at the current average log price. FIJI Hardwood Corporation Limited told a consultation this week that it was set to begin harvesting operations in Vanua Levu for the first time.
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Synopsis
It’s back!
IT is wonderful to see the Hibiscus Festival back after such a long hiatus!
Surely there can be no doubts about the impact of the event, and its place on the minds of thousands of Fijians around the world.
Generations of Fijians grew up with the annual event. There is a rich history connected to this event! It has left an indelible impression on many minds and captured the imagination of thousands more.
It was an event where all imaginary divides were thrown out and the venue turned into a cauldron brimming with people of different races and religions. It was a celebration of community and togetherness.
People came from around the country, making a beeline for the Capital City. They wanted to be a part of the event.
The festival was like the glue that bound people together in a fun-filled environment.
Traditionally, there were a lot of things to do and see, and for the children, there were fun rides, games and food and drinks.
As we head into this year’s event starting today, there would be high expectations out there about how it is going to turn out.
For the contestants, this is a challenging time in their young lives.
They will share moments of pride, joy and mixed emotions.
They will be exposed to many things, offering them opportunities to gain self-confidence and to live their dreams.
It is never easy to step up and face thousands of people, knowing you are the focus of attention.
But there are confident young contestants who have accepted this challenge to front this year’s event.
They need our support to help them have the confidence to make an impact on the lives of other Fijians.
We can be motivated by messages of hope, embracing change and making a difference in our personal lives. Such events are more than just entertainment. They have the potential to inspire us, giving us hope in the face of massive challenges.
The festival grew as a catalyst for change, connecting the people of Suva and the broader Fijian community.
We look forward with great expectation, to the joy and inspiration it can bring.
The revival of this iconic event is a testament to its enduring significance and the cherished place it holds in the hearts and minds of Fijians around the world! It belongs to the people and there is cause for celebration!
So as we head down to the venue of the festivities, let’s be vigilant as well, and be mindful of our surroundings. We can all unite to ensure we have a safe, pleasant and enjoyable Hibisicus Festival!
