Price hike SELWA NANDAN LAUTOKA THE CEO of Consumer Council of Fiji has sounded a strong warning to transport operators to refrain from passing on the rising fuel costs to consumers through unauthorised fare increases (FT 3/4). I agree that due processes have to be followed for the fares to be reviewed by the relevant authorities. But is that really fair? It seems the CEO has forgotten that the taxi and mini-bus operators are also consumers and most of them live from hand to mouth. They will surely face hardship if they are expected to absorb the additional cost of fuel. When import duty goes up the price of goods is increased immediately even on pre-budget stocks. And the consumers bear the full burden because no review is conducted to determine whether the increase in price was fairly applied. Isn’t this tantamount to practising double standard? I urge the minister responsible to explain to the people of Fiji the rationality for approving the recent hike in fuel prices.
Spiritual intervention NISHANT SINGH LAUTOKA WITH the fuel crisis tightening its grip on the nation, it seems the most “practical” solution is to pray and fast, vigorously, for the problem to disappear as quickly as possible. After all, when things fall apart and the going gets tough, Fijians have a well-established habit of turning to this “workable” strategy. Yes, spiritual intervention would be the way forward.
Easter reflections! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU THANK you, editor-in chief Fred Wesley, for the heartwarming editorial titled ‘Easter reflections’ (FT: 03/04). These lines, “So, let’s make Easter be more than just a long weekend. Let it be a reminder to appreciate what we have, to extend empathy to those around us, and to reflect on how we can make a positive difference in our homes, our communities, and our country,” carried so much weight, Wesley! Indeed, this long weekend is a time for reflection on Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, His resurrection and the events that took place on Mount Calvary. It is important to strengthen our relationship with God and our loved ones. While for some Easter is an opportunity to unwind and enjoy family time, Christians are reminded about Jesus Christ’s message of sacrifice. Easter is more than just a holiday, as it is a celebration of hope, renewal and the boundless power of love and unity to overcome challenges and obstacles we face in our daily life. Easter signifies the triumph of light over darkness, life over death, and hope over despair. It reminds us that during our most challenging and difficult moments, we must not lose hope and give up but claw our way to victory. We are blessed to live in a multiracial country like Fiji where we have people of different cultures, faith and ethnicities living together peacefully. This diversity is our strength, and we must use it to unite everyone. There is a need to foster peace, empathy and understanding to build a better Fiji for everyone. We must reflect on the universal values of resilience, forgiveness, love, compassion, hope, mercy, kindness, and gratitude. May this holy season brighten the lives of every Fijian!
Renewable energy MANOA KALECA VISHNU DEO ROAD, NAKASI FIJI must invest in renewable energy like solar, wind turbines to generate power and biomass for cooking. Flour Mills of Fiji is teaming up with a Chinese car company selling electric vehicles here in Fiji which will help cut down our carbon emissions. Electric vehicles should be the way forward if we want to keep our Fiji clean, and less dependent on oil. The conflict in Iran escalating with the militia group the Houthis entering the conflict, we need to be prepared and search for other alternatives to power our island nation.
Jargon galore DONALD SINGH NAUSORI ASIA Pacific Regulatory Centre senior adviser and consultant, Joel Abraham said that Fiji loses vital “window” to soften fuel shock, and he also said that this is not an accident of design. He explained that it serves a critical function as it creates a buffer against immediate volatility; provides space for businesses and households to adjust; and, most importantly, it gives the government time to respond deliberately, rather than reactively. Joel said plenty other highly technical stuff too. Joel, what does all that mean in plain English? I couldn’t figure out whether you were coming or going. I thought that was some lamulamu criticism of the fuel price hike!
Vuda project RAJEND NAIDU SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA WHEN it came to power after the 2022 election, the Rabuka government pledged to listen to the voice of the people. This was to be their signature change in style of leadership and governance from the previous FijiFirst government of Bainimarama and Sayed-Khaiyum who listened only to themselves. In keeping with its pledge, I earnestly hope the Rabuka government listens to the voice of concern being raised regarding the proposed Vuda waste incinerator project’s deleterious environmental ramifications. I hope it pays heed and does what’s right for the local community and environmental integrity.
Vuda project RAJEND NAIDU SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA WHEN it came to power after the 2022 election, the Rabuka government pledged to listen to the voice of the people. This was to be their signature change in style of leadership and governance from the previous FijiFirst government of Bainimarama and Sayed-Khaiyum who listened only to themselves. In keeping with its pledge, I earnestly hope the Rabuka government listens to the voice of concern being raised regarding the proposed Vuda waste incinerator project’s deleterious environmental ramifications. I hope it pays heed and does what’s right for the local community and environmental integrity.
Fuel situation RAKESH CHAND SHARMA NADI THE way Government dealt with the fuel situation in Fiji is likened to “a frog suffering from headache, cold and flu”; meaning “medhaki ko sardard aur zukham ho gaya”.
Power delay ARTI VERMA SIMLA, LAUTOKA REMINDS me of my study days in the early ‘70s when we had no electricity at home. We loved each moment when it became dark and we lit up our kerosene lamps for our studies and homework and the burning kerosene smell was just something. I refer to the article and the picture on page 5 of the FT of 2/4 (Petition filed overpower delay) and am wondering how these children must be experiencing their nights with kerosene lamps and candle lights. Must be fun for kids to feel the difference in lights to study under.
Golden ash tray JIOJI O. TORONIBAU NAVETAU, TUNULOA AUSTRALIA is such a massive continent and why did Fiji’s top echelons want them to use the tiny island as an ashtray? Please don’t see the financial benefits but the elongated levels of the living souls. Rest in peace Fiji.
FNPF assistance? NISHANT SINGH LAUTOKA WITH the fuel crisis looming and threatening to hit Fijian families hard, one can’t help but wonder, will the good guys at the Fiji National Provident Fund allow financially struggling households to withdraw some of their own funds for survival? It certainly recalls the CO- VID days when Fijians were permitted to tap into their savings. Back then, the two (now irrelevant) FijiFirst men in charge confidently labelled it “government assistance”, conveniently forgetting that people were really just accessing their own hard-earned money. Funny.
Common name NAYAGODAMU KOROVOU NASESE, SUVA I WRITE to express support for a thoughtful and timely proposal currently being proposed by the GCC — an amendment to remove constitutional phrase “We are all Fijian”. We proposed that we replace this statement with the statement “We are all children of God, equal in dignity, and shall be treated equally under the law”. While the intention behind the current wording was to promote unity, many citizens feel that it has not fully achieved this goal. Instead, it has at times overlooked the rich cultural identities that make up our nation and has sparked ongoing debate about imposed identity rather than fostering genuine unity. The proposed amendment offers a meaningful alternative. By affirming that we are all children of God, it shifts the focus from labels to shared values — values such as dignity, respect, humility, and equality. In a country like Fiji, where faith plays a central role in the lives of many, this statement resonates deeply across communities. Importantly, this change does not seek to erase identity. Rather, it allows individuals and communities to retain and celebrate their cultural heritage — whether iTaukei, Indo-Fijian, or others — while anchoring national unity in a higher moral principle that transcends ethnicity and background. Furthermore, the proposed wording strengthens the spirit of equality already present in our Constitution. It reminds us that true unity is not enforced through terminology but cultivated through shared beliefs and mutual respect. As Fiji continues to grow and define its future, it is vital that our Constitution reflects both our diversity and our deeply held values. This proposal deserves open, respectful national discussion, involving communities, faith leaders, and citizens from all walks of life. Let us strive for a unity that speaks not only to our laws, but to our hearts.
Term Fijian NISHANT SINGH LAUTOKA THE Great Council of Chiefs, a century-old institution, now proposes that the term “Fijian” be reserved exclusively for the iTaukei. Absolutely, by all means, please go ahead. Honestly, I have no qualms whatsoever with that. In fact, I would be quite content being called a “kai-india” or a “vulagi”. I take immense pride in my Indian heritage which is rich in culture, tradition, and cuisine, and one that has made undeniable contributions to science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and even space exploration. The kaiindia has reached the moon, remember? These are not claims or speculations, but facts well documented on the global stage. So will a change in terminology make any meaningful difference in Fiji? Highly unlikely. The resilient “vulagi” will continue, adapt, thrive, contribute and significantly drive the Fijian economy despite the hurdles and unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, what is more puzzling is the GCC’s continued obsession with labels, while a substantial portion of its own people (75 per cent of them) remain entrenched in poverty despite vast natural resources at their disposal. One would assume that after a hundred years, an institution established to advance iTaukei interests and the so called “Fijian” supremacy might have delivered more tangible outcomes. Sadly, nothing! And then comes the suggestion to move away from Fiji being a labelled secular state. Another laughable and impractical recommendation by the chiefs. That once famous “homebrew under the mango tree” story alone should be enough to remind us why mixing politics, tradition and power is not ideal. This is no longer the 1800s. The Great Council of Chiefs should call it a day. I need not say more.
Fijian identity NAVAULIONI KORO RAVAI MARTINTAR, NADI I RESPECTFULLY disagree with the recent submission by the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) suggesting that not all citizens should be called “Fijian”. Such a view risks creating division rather than unity in our diverse nation. In many countries like New Zealand, all citizens are collectively identified as New Zealanders or Kiwis, while the indigenous people retain their distinct identity as Māori. Similarly, in Fiji, we can all be called Fijians, while those registered in the Vola ni Kawa Bula (VKB) are rightfully recognised as iTaukei. Inclusivity strengthens national identity and promotes unity. Let us embrace a name that unites rather than separates us.
Win, win situation DAN URAI LAUTOKA RELOCATION is humming loud and clear. I believe setting up the billion-dollar incinerator in a remote part of Kadavu may create a win, win situation for the Environment Minister, Government and the Australian investor. We are told that a similar project exists in a remote part of Singapore and works well. Vuda is earmarked for tourism development and not a good site for the project. I believe Kadavu will benefit financially from the billion dollar project.
Amending the Constitution KIRAN KHATRI SAMABULA, SUVA AFTER I read all the stone age proposals by the GCC, I realised amending the Constitution will be and should be much harder. Government cannot just ask in the referendum if the people want to change the Constitution. Every amendment should be a separate referendum question because people may support some amendments but reject other amendments. Then only will it be a truly democratic Constitution amendment process. Government has to be tactical about it and not bring about all the changes at once. Else it will be multiple pages of referendum. Too much for the common person to comprehend. A referendum may almost have the same cost as a general election. It will be cost effective to do the two things together. But first, let’s get the Referendum Bill sorted. The poorly worded Referendum Bill is getting so much backlash. 04/04/2026, Imagine what will happen when they write the amendments to the Constitution?
Chaudhry’s demand RAKESH CHAND SHARMA NADI FLP leader MP Chaudhary is demanding temporary duty reductions, shielding essential goods from shipping surcharges etc. The Modi government in India has already done this and not a single rupee increase has been made to fuel prices. This government cannot pass the burden onto consumers and sit smugly.
Boxing program RAYNAV CHAND JP MAHARAJ ST, NAKASI I WAS amazed at the setup and organisation at the ZEG Boxing Promotions event at the Vodafone Arena in Suva on Saturday. Hats off to the Events Plus team, led by my good friend Gyan, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to give us an international standard setup. The screen setup above the ring, the lighting and the walk-in fire and smoke effects, made it feel like we were seated in the US. I also acknowledge the MaiTV crew for their live coverage. It is because of them the fans at the arena got to see replays of the boxing on the big screen. The setup was topped by the incredible level of boxing displayed by almost all fighters. I was particularly impressed with the energy levels displayed by the female boxers Aarti Hooda of India and New Zealand’s Emma Nesbitt. Although I felt that the decision to overturn Hooda’s victory into a draw, two hours after the bout, was unfair and unjust, I was still impressed by both boxers. We definitely need more such boxing events and with the standards set by ZEG Promotions, I can sense the rise in boxing levels in general.
Vuda energy project DAN URAI LAUTOKA THE Tourism Minister is against installation of the incinerator in Vuda while the Environment Minister is introducing the process for enabling the project to go ahead. Both are speaking through the media. What happened to good old talanoa to resolve issues. Afterall they are both Cabinet members. Surely the wishes of the people must reign supreme.
Strange turn of events AREKI DAWAI SUVA IT seems that the office of the Minister of Environment is not entirely sure and confused about whether they support or will object to the waste to energy plant project in Vuda. The responsible ministry that I believe should be protecting our environment is quiet at the moment, strange indeed.
Wishing you joy! DEWAN CHAND NAMADI HEIGHTS, SUVA ON April 2, 2026, the Hindu devotees (Sanatanis) were set to celebrate Hanuman Jayanti (birth of Lord Hanuman) which came on the heels of Ramanavami. It would have been Chaitra Purnima (Full Moon). Hanumanji is the son of Mata Anjana and Keshri and he is blessed by Yayu debta (Air deity). He plays a unique role in the life of Lord Rama as his devoted servant. It is believed that Hanumanji is Chiranjeevi (still alive) on Earth and comes to the rescue of his devotees. It is believed that Hanumanji wears Lal langot and devotees hoist a red flag (symbol of purity) in his honour. Devotees offer flowers, fruits and rot (deep fried sweet bread). Sindur (red vermillion) and oil is also offered during prayers. Devotees visit Hanuman temple and Ramayan mandalis (groups) sing excerpts from Ramcharitramanas. There is much socialisation as the community comes together to sing, dance and distribute food as a community activity. In Ramcharitramanas Hanumanji is portrayed as the embodiment of devotion (Bhakti), humility and strength. He is not only Rama’s loyal servant but also a spiritual ideal: symbolizing selfless service, unwavering faith and power to surrender to God. Hanuman’s defining trait is his absolute devotion to Rama. A perfect servant who only serves his master. Despite his eminence, strength and wisdom, Hanuman never claims credit. He attributes all success to Rama’s grace, showing the virtue of egoless service. Hanuman’s heroic deeds: leaping across the ocean, burning Lanka, and defeating powerful Ravana demonstrates his unmatched physical and spiritual power. He is the symbol of wisdom, discrimination, diplomacy and faith. Hanuman’s major role is messenger of Rama when he goes to Lanka to meet Sita in Ashok Batika (Garden). He acts as a bridge between despair and hope. Hanuman is treated as sankat mochan (Remover of all obstacles). Thus, devotees recite Hanuman Chalisa when they need his assistance. He is looked upon as a dharmic (religious) leader. He saves the life of Laxman and plays a pivotal role in the final battle against Ravana. May I wish all Hindu devotees a joyful Hanuman Jayanti.
FIFA World Cup 2026 SURESH CHAND NADI THE FIFA World Cup 2026 is going to be a significant event, introducing many exciting changes and historic milestones. For the first time, the tournament will be held in three countries: the US, Canada, and Mexico. This is a return to North America, as Mexico last hosted in 1986 and the United States in 1994. The tournament will also grow to feature 48 teams instead of the usual 32, which will allow for more global representation and additional matches for fans to enjoy. Games will be held in various cities across the three host nations, highlighting different cultures and famous stadiums. The format will include a group stage where teams will compete, followed by knockout rounds, leading to a grand finale. The expanded tournament is anticipated to draw unprecedented global interest and offer a stage for rising football talent. The 2026 World Cup, the world’s largest sporting event, will captivate millions of viewers globally. With the facilities, infrastructure, and love for football available in the host nations, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be an exciting celebration of the sport on an unmatched scale.
That one question COLIN DEOKI AUSTRALIA THERE’S one question that refuses to fade with time: Why did the executive management and board of the Fiji National Provident Fund stand silent and comply when the regime of Voreqe Bainimarama and Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum imposed decisions that directly undermined the fundamental rights and protections of FNPF members? The FNPF exists for one purpose: to safeguard the lifelong savings of working people. It’s not a political instrument. It’s not a convenience for governments. It’s supposed to be a secure and sacred trust — a trust that members can rely on that will look after their interests when it comes time to enjoy retirement. And yet that trust was trashed and fractured by an illegal regime in collusion with the FNPF. Were members of the executive and board coerced? Were they pressured? Or did they willingly acquiesce? If they believed the actions were lawful and just, why has there been no transparent accounting to the very pensioners whose lives were upended? Are those individuals still occupying positions of influence today? If so, how can public confidence be restored while the same figures remain shielded from scrutiny and accountability? The silence is deafening. Old-age pensioners — men and women who laboured faithfully for decades — were left to absorb the consequences. Some were forced into hardship. Some into indignity. Savings that were meant to provide security in their twilight years were diminished under the authority of those entrusted to protect them. Where’s the apology? Where’s the acknowledgement of harm? Where’s the restitution? These questions aren’t driven by malice. They’re driven by justice. Accountability isn’t vengeance. It’s the foundation of public trust. Without it, institutions erode from within. The tragedy isn’t only what happened. It’s that the unresolved questions continue to hang over families, quietly suffocating hope. Bureaucratic deflection cannot heal moral injury. The people deserve clarity. The pensioners deserve dignity. And the nation deserves to know whether those entrusted with its most sacred financial covenant chose courage or compliance. Until these questions are answered transparently and without evasion, this wound will not close. It will continue to hurt the reputation of both the current government and the FNPF and I would imagine – potential investment in the country. Make it right. It’s your moral and ethical duty. And then see how it resonates and reverberates in other areas of the country in the most positive ways.
As noisy as! RONNIE CHANG MARTINTAR, NADI A GROUP of about 20 tertiary students from a renowned educational institution in Sabeto came for refreshments after 11am on Wednesday, April 1. They were as noisy as. They dragged the highchairs, causing much annoyance and disturbance of the peace. Simple courtesy was noticeably absent. Burger King Nadi ought to pay attention to their high stools and chairs. Patrons do not know how to lift them properly. (Lift them; not drag them. I was taught this in primary school in the 1960s. Times have changed). Some food for thought to all concerned.
Ratu Epeli JIOJI O. TORONIBAU NAVETAU, TUNULOA ‘LIGHT unto my path’. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau has walked the talk. From government buildings to Grant Water house walking, jokingly talking to people, a hobby he loved. Now, gas prices have gone up, what next? Remember him when sharing a bowl of brown label at Toorak bar when suddenly few bodyguards were hysterically, breathless scurrying looking for the former president.With us today, still need a ride for a destination. Gas prices gone up, can you decide to take a walk?
A pensioner’s lament COLIN DEOKI AUSTRALIA “Sleepless nights and silent tears, Fourteen long and weary years. A cruel decree, a shadow cast, That stole my future, chained my past. With the stroke of a poison pen, My life was shattered again and again. Promises broken, scattered like dust, Betrayal dressed in the cloak of trust. Mocking whispers, bitter and near, Echo loudly for those who hear. Time moves on, but hope feels thin, As a frail heart fights the loss within. I feel the dusk of my days draw close, A fading light, a trembling ghost. Yet deep inside, a question cries Will justice come before hope dies? Who will stand for the voices worn, For dreams 04/04/2026, 17:48 The Fiji Times https://edition.fijitimes.com.fj/html5/reader/production/default.aspx?pubname=&pubid=e4fad093-33c6-4e8c-8f9d-b19c68c8b31a 1/2 undone, for dignity torn? Who will rise, speak truth, be strong, And finally right this lingering wrong? Oh let it come, this long due grace, Before we leave this earthly place. So we may rest, our battle won, And greet the night with justice done.”
Vidiri tribute! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU HATS off to The Fiji Times sports team for the wonderful tribute that was paid to a rugby icon in the late Joeli Vidiri (FT: 25/03) who graced the Super 12 competition for the Auckland Blues! Vidiri, who passed away in the USA in 2022, was a class player who played 7s as well for the Fiji 7s team and then the All Blacks 7s. Because Vidiri donned the Blues jumper in the 90s, a lot of Fijians started supporting the Blues who won the 1996 and 1997 Super 12 titles beating South Africa’s Natal Sharks 45-21 and the ACT Brumbies 23-7. The Blues dominance was ended by my mighty Crusaders who won in 1998, defeating the defending champions 20-13. The Crusaders made a hattrick, winning in 1999 and 2000, defeating the Otago Highlanders 24-19 and ACT Brumbies 20-19. Vidiri played for Fiji before switching allegiance to the All Blacks. He had pace to burn and was ranked as the burning train. He was a force of terror for the opposition and whenever he had the ball in hand, Blues fans knew that he was going to spark something creative. Vidiri had such passion for rugby, and he was determined and dedicated. He was humble and was not carried away with the fame and honour that he received. This is a valuable lesson for our rugby players- no matter what, continue to be humble and thank God for His blessing! It’s a pity that the Fijian Drua got hammered by the Auckland Blues who walked away with the Vidiri Memorial Trophy. I felt that they deserved it as Vidiri had played for them and was their star player!
Fuel price hike, a certainty RONNIE CHANG MARTINTAR, NADI AS sure as the sun will rise each morning, fuel price hikes are a certainty. Goods and services will inevitably cost more. Bus and taxi fares must increase. Fiji is not exempt. The poorer in every community will suffer the most. A heap of three pineapples in Namaka Market from a “gagaj’s” stall cost $10 on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Inflation will not spare us. Local produce prices have also spiked, overnight, like fuel prices. A massive national miss communication, indeed … so swift; too sudden a huge price hike. Fiji’s approximately 30,000 civil servants (Am I wrong) are poised to get some pay increase. You lot are luckiest. So very fortunate. As you celebrate this Easter, please remember all the less fortunate. Many senior betrayed pensioners, about 1400 of us, will not escape the hard grips of added poverty, suffering, humiliation and aggravated stress. It appears justice delayed, is an acceptable norm for FNPF’s greater glee and joy. This is heartlessness on a great big national and cruel scale. I believe in “Karma”. Do you? We wait and see.
Critical look at experience PECELI ALISTIR WAITOLU, NAITASIRI IN a recent post on social media, Ketan Lal, (the youngest MP in Fiji’s Parliament) appeals for “respect” toward former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, citing his years of experience and his role in developing Fiji’s “modern democratic framework”. However, a true democracy values accountability over seniority. While Mr Lal argues that experience deserves to be heard, we must ask: what was the actual impact of that experience on the nation of Fiji? Mr Lal speaks of a “modern democratic framework”, yet many Fijians remember a decade defined by what critics call ‘’dictatorial leadership’’ and “a culture of fear”. Under the FijiFirst tenure, international watchdogs like Reporters Without Borders frequently ranked Fiji poorly for press freedom, noting that journalists faced intimidation and selfcensorship. To claim this as a successful “democratic contribution” ignores the systematic erosion of the rights of those who dared to dissent. Furthermore, the “experience” Mr Lal champions oversaw an economic legacy that is now being deeply questioned: During Mr SayedKhaiyum’s time as Minister for Economy, Fiji’s national debt ballooned toward $10 billion. Current leaders, including resigned Finance Minister, Biman Prasad, have noted that this spending failed to fix critical infrastructure, leaving hospitals like the CWM Hospital in a “decrepit” state. Cost of Living: While the former A-G now critiques current inflation, his own record saw overall prices rise by 17 percent and food prices by 30 per cent between 2014 and 2022. Governance issues: The 2013 Constitution, often touted by his supporters, was drafted with minimal public engagement and is viewed by many as a tool designed to consolidate power rather than empower the people. Mr Lal defends the former A- G’s right to participate in the Referendum Bill consultations. While the right to speak is indeed a constitutional principle, we must not separate the speaker from their record. It is highly ironic for someone who presided over laws that allegedly restricted public discussion to now voice concerns about “limiting public engagement”. Ultimately, the questioning of Mr Sayed-Khaiyum’s presence is not about “silencing a voice”. It is a demand for accountability. With ongoing legal challenges regarding abuse of office and corrupt benefits currently before the courts, the public has every right to scrutinise whether his “experience” was used to build a nation or simply to maintain control. A strong democracy is indeed built on voices being heard — but it is also built on a system where leaders are judged by the results of their actions, not just the length of their resumes. I personally, wouldn’t support Mr Lal’s view. Thank you for your admiration of the former A-G, however, I believe that there are more qualified personnel out here who can stand up to the role. I just checked my Calendar now, and I’m sure it’s 2026. We wouldn’t want another four years of debt increments, thank you very much.
Historic debut SURESH CHAND NADI THE 2026 FIFA World Cup is on the verge of making history as four countries prepare to step onto football’s grandest stage for the first time, showcasing the sport’s expanding global influence. Curaçao, representing the CONCACAF region (North, Central America, and the Caribbean), has emerged as a growing power in regional football. Their initial qualification marks a significant advancement for this Caribbean nation as they join the elite of the world. Cape Verde, hailing from the African region (CAF), continues to make strides in football. Their first appearance at the World Cup is a key milestone for this island nation, highlighting their rising significance on the continental stage. Jordan will make history by representing the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Their involvement reflects years of consistent development and their increasing competitiveness in Middle Eastern football. Uzbekistan, also from the AFC, rounds out the list of debuting teams. Their long-awaited qualification is a notable accomplishment, bringing Central Asian football into the global spotlight. The addition of these four nations illustrates the FIFA World Cup’s growing inclusivity, as more countries from diverse regions take the opportunity to compete at the highest level of the sport. Congratulations are due for newcomers.
