Call to action RAJEND NAIDU SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA I ENDORSE Seveci Tora’s “Call to action: The community must unite, protest vehemently, and block this venture — protect Vuda’s potential as a sports and tourism hub, not a waste corridor” (FT 25/4/26). The community must maintain rage over the plan to turn their pristine natural environment into a toxic garbage processing industrial plant. They must of course do that with Arnold Chanel’s “Call for civility in the Vuda debate” (FT 25/4/26). But in maintaining the rage, they must, for their community’s fate is at stake in this questionable venture.
Missing your letters SURESH CHAND NADI MOHAMMED Imraz Janif was a familiar name in The Fiji Times, as he frequently penned thoughtful and compelling letters that captured my interest. I always looked forward to reading his contributions — they were engaging, insightful, and delved straight into the heart of pertinent public issues. His style of writing demonstrated both clarity and precision, making his perspectives not just thought provoking but highly relatable. Imraz reminds me of the late Allen Lockington, another remarkable writer from the western city who had a talent for hitting the mark with his words—a true sharpshooter in addressing societal issues. Lately, however, I’ve noticed a sudden absence of his letters in the pages of this newspaper. This void has left me wondering what could have caused this unexpected silence. Has he taken a step back from writing? Is he preoccupied with other commitments? Most importantly, I hope he is in good health and doing well. His voice always added depth to the discussions in The Fiji Times, and it would be a loss to no longer see him gracing these pages with his thoughtful insights. If he happens to come across this, I would like to let him know his work is missed and I hope he returns soon to share more of his remarkable opinions.
Wise observation RAJEND NAIDU SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA WISE Muavono makes a very wise observation when he points out (letter 25/4) that people should denounce a secular state and advocate that it be proclaimed a Christian State “but our social problems are a far reflection of being a Christian one. How ironic!” Too right indeed. Christian extremists need to ponder on that. I know the deeper mental engagement might be too taxing for some.
Excitement heats up RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU EXCITEMENT is building up as athletes are into their last few days of preparations before they hit top gear next Thursday when this year’s Coca-Cola Games kicks off. Athletes residing outside Viti Levu are ready to make their journey to the Capital City with hopes of returning home with beautiful memories. Those on the mainland are walking the extra mile to ensure they perform beyond expectation. Athletes who won medals at the last Coca-Cola Games will aim to do better this year. Each athlete carries a dream and that of their loved ones and their beloved school. The fever is such. Expect tears, emotions and stories to fill both the print and social media. MGM High School and Marist Brothers High School will be defending their titles. Tickets are on sale and the official list is out. Excitement is heating up as athletes prepare to gather in Suva. Like others, I’m looking forward to the battle!
Abuse of power RAJEND NAIDU SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA APPEALS court judges recently ruled that the International Criminal Court has jurisdiction over former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, dismissing a bid by his defence to throw out his trial over his alleged pivotal role in the murder of thousands of people in his war on drugs during his reign in power. Families of the victims who were watching the proceedings from the Philippines erupted in joy when the court verdict was read out (Reuters 24/4/26). I am not a Filipino but I was also overjoyed by the court verdict because I firmly believe those who abuse their position of power and commit atrocities against their own people must face justice. During his reign in power, Duterte conducted himself as if he was untouchable and above the law. Now he must account for his conduct and if found guilty, he must do the time for his crimes.
Open hearts and hands COLIN DEOKI MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA WHEN extremism enters quietly through your door, It rarely looks like hatred at the core. It whispers first, it doesn’t shout, It twists the truth, it feeds on doubt. It names you “other,” brands you wrong, Turns neighbour’s face to fearful throng. Not faith, but fury takes the lead, And weaponises words and creed. The bells that once rang clear and free Fall silent under tyranny. Not just in churches, but in hearts Where fear divides and trust departs. You’ll ask yourself, “How did we sleep? How did we let the shadows creep?” For freedom lost is rarely torn It’ll affect generations still unborn. And in that hour, both loud and late, You’ll see too clearly what breeds hate: Not one belief, nor one true name But minds consumed by power and flame. So guard your soul, but guard it wise, From easy blame and blunt disguise. For peace is built where courage stands Not just in words, but open hearts and hands.
Press freedom RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU WORLD Press Freedom Day will be celebrated next weekend on Sunday, May 3. Press freedom and independent journalism are key to peace, sustainable development, human rights and economic recovery and must focus on access to reliable information, accountability, dialogue and trust. The day offers a critical moment to reaffirm freedom of expression and reminds the Government of the day to respect their commitment to press freedom. Media professionals celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom. On this day, we also pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. As I read the story titled “Survivor details torture” (FT: 23/04), I hoped the journalist and photographer who covered the story would be given protection. It takes a lion’s heart to cover such ordeal.
Fuel crisis RONNIE CHANG MARTINTAR, NADI GERMAN international airline, Lufthansa, boasts a fleet size of about 270 aircraft. Due to the increase in aviation fuel prices, attributed to the unpredictability of Donald Trump and his ally, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the ongoing war involving Iran, Lufthansa is set to cancel some 20,000 flights during the Northern Hemisphere summer months. The scale of these cancellations is massive. Lufthansa is taking all necessary precautions to minimise its losses. Both President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu still do not seem to grasp the harm they are inflicting on the world economy. Both men are grossly irresponsible. They lack quality leadership and vision. Pride will almost always lead to a fall. It is a matter of time. Iran is proving to be more than a tough opponent. In my considered view, the United States has no clear exit strategy. I pray that Fiji does not suffer irreparable economic harm. Fijians need to be very united now. Any division will exacerbate the hard times ahead.
Christian state? NISHANT SINGH LAUTOKA HERE we go again! A local business owner has reportedly recommended to the CRC that Fiji be formally declared a Christian state, insisting that its Christian foundation is “nonnegotiable”. Really? Just recently, we were grappling with an identity crisis, now this? What exactly would Fiji gain from such a declaration? Will it resolve the country’s escalating drug wars? Strengthen the economy? Ease the rising cost of living or reduce unemployment? Will it curb violent crime or lower the prison population — much of which, ironically, is predominantly made up of a Christian denomination? And will it meaningfully uplift the iTaukei community, where a significant portion still lives in poverty despite widespread land ownership? The answer is obvious, none of these issues will be solved by branding Fiji a Christian state. Symbolism will not fix systemic problems. What we need is a serious, collective focus on the real challenges holding back our social and economic progress. It’s also worth noting that India, the world’s largest democracy, with an overwhelming Hindu majority, remains firmly committed to secularism. That example alone should give us pause. So please, enough of these ridiculous and primitive suggestions. It’s pure nonsense!
Christian state debate JAN NISSAR ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE THOSE who are calling for a Christian state to be recognised in the Constitution are clearly speaking from a position of prejudice – both religious and racial prejudice. It is clear not just in my mind but in their minds. There is no use disputing that or being in denial. I am sure these people are pretending to be champions of democracy – I am not sure about champions of equal rights for all though. Is it unreasonable to conclude that those calling for a Christian state are ill-informed religious bigots who in recent years have not been too sure whether they are Christians or Israelites? I have often wondered if they even know the difference between a Christian and an Israelite. What always amazes me is how shameless they are in being proudly prejudiced. It may be that they are simply not aware.
