Basis of increase DONALD SINGH SUVA WHILE it sounds quite positive at first look, the claim by the EFL CEO that Fiji’s electricity demand is expected to increase by approximately 5 per cent per year, needs to be tested. We cannot accept random numbers thrown around to justify other bad decisions. What were the numbers, statistics, demographics, and economic forecasts used to make this 5 per cent demand increase claim? At layman level, our GDP and maybe population growths could be basic pointers. Data please, and uncooked.
Namaka road death RONNIE CHANG MARTINTAR, NADI WHILE I admit the Namaka traffic police officers cannot be everywhere at the same time, it is with much grief, sadness and heartbreak that Denarau Marina driver was reportedly hit by a bus and killed at the traffic lights closest to Namaka Public School during the Christmas long weekend. This is a needless tragedy. I have on numerous occasions, shared my thoughts publicly — the Namaka, Martintar, Denarau bypass roads are a haven for reckless, thoughtless, showoff and dangerous drivers. This stretch of the Queens Road needs far greater police presence. Our authorities must “wake up” immediately. There is no other way. There are far too many irresponsible drivers on our roads. They must be pulled up. Do not let them get away. Complacency by law enforcement officers is not a preferred choice, in my view. The notable absence of police traffic officers, even at random and regular intervals, emboldens offending drivers to escape detection. Another pedestrian has now paid the ultimate price. Why? Who cares for this bread-winner’s family? Our traffic laws need modernising. Victims are left to fend for themselves. Am I wrong?
Way the world should be MOSES FONG SUVA IN 1986 it was, when on his visit here, Pope John Paul described Fiji as “…the way the world should be”. And we were in awe at how we were described; and that would have caused some envy, for sure. 16 years of independence after the British colonial rule; Fiji was still in the early years of self rule, we all felt we were on the right track. But in the following few months after that, it was the beginning of what led to the state of affairs we are in today. We all know that things change over time, but it is not “time” that does the changes; we get to realise that people in authority administer to suit the egos, beliefs and convictions of the incumbents. And so it goes, 39 years after we were called “the way the world should be” we are now sort of wondering where we are wandering. I believe that the bit of prayer in our National Anthem … “a land of freedom, hope and glory, to endure what ever befall” has worked and carried us thus far. OMG, but the next General Election is due next year: from past experience we know that promises made are always made to be amended to suit the needs of the subjects (or perpetrators), and here’s wishing us all happiness and peace in the new year.
Confused lot KIRTI PATEL LAUTOKA WHY and how are we jumping around with the FCCC chairmanship position? This is a very crucial institute and cannot or shouldn’t be going in the mock field. The nation is already stressed with the sudden EFL tariff increase. What the hell on Earth is happening with this organisation?
Wounded to the core RAKESH CHAND SHARMA NADI COLIN Deoki needs to remember that in one of my earlier LTE, I had said that an Indian journalist had written in late 1980s that terrorism will reach Australian shores one day. Western nations had been pontificating on countries that were grappling with acts of terrorism and radicalism. What unfolded on Bondi Beach had begun on December 11, 2005 Cronulla riots. The Australian Governments had lulled themselves into the belief that it was just a minor aberration.
Impact of festivals DEWAN CHAND NAMADI HEIGHTS, SUVA WE are fortunate and blessed that we celebrate a number of festivals in multiracial Fiji. Festivals have a significant impact socially, culturally, economically and psychologically. Festivals strengthen social bonds among friends and the community. It promotes unity and harmony. Celebrations and sharing in each other’s festival encourages respect. It helps preserve customs, traditions, rituals and values which are passed from generation to generation. Further, festivals protect cultural identity, music , dance, clothings and traditional foods: sweets, semai or lovo making. Multicultural festivals allow society to appreciate multicultural diversity. It leads to boosting creativity: arts and craft, performances, and storytelling flourish during festivals. Economic impact is also felt when temporary jobs in tourism, hospitality, decorations and transport are created. Local businesses are also affected when there is higher demand for food and services. Local and international travel flourishes. Festivals are a great occasion for relaxation and joy. It enhances happiness through music, rituals and social interactions. Emotions run high as people experience a sense of belonging through social interaction. Community identity is promoted. Annual festivals have a great educational value by teaching children respect, gratitude, charity, and cooperation. They learn about the history of their religion and traditions: (Christmas Tree and Father Christmas/Santa Claus). It promotes moral development, peace, kindness and generosity. Festivals also have some negative effects: air and water pollution, noise pollution, financial pressure through reckless spending. Finally, in the hum and drum of commercialisation the true meaning and value of the festival is lost. Spirituality and culture are victims. People are already in the mood to celebrate the New Year 2026 and let us pray that our beloved country prospers under the current democratic leadership. Happy New Year to all.
Freedom of the press RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU DURING the dark days, when the Media Industry Development Act (MIDA) ruled, silence was the price of survival, but thank God MIDA was repealed immediately by the Coalition Government since coming into power. The repeal of other Draconian Decrees and restrictive media laws put an end to statecontrolled narratives and has given journalists the freedom to question, investigate, and report without fear of retribution. I thank the PM and the Coalition Government for their commitment to the freedom of the press. It’s hard to forget those dark days, but I’m glad they are over. The freedom of speech is undoubtably important in Fiji, and we must ensure that we vote a government which places emphasis on the freedom of the press and the fundamental rights of all human beings. I don’t want my beloved Fiji to go backwards.
FCCC fireworks DONALD SINGH SUVA NEW Year’s night fireworks will arrive on New Year’s night. But bigger fireworks have been set off already with rumours of the Abraham appointment and reversal saga at FCCC. If matters have escalated to be that bad, why doesn’t our Government show its real muscle and call off the tariff increase altogether? The buck stops with the Government, not with EFL or FCCC. Government has powers, fortunately
