Bula FC takes nosedive
Watching the Bula FC beaten by Vanuatu United FC 2-0 was disappointing. Lars Hopps’ men picked up three valuable points with an impressive outing while our boys went packing. Vanuatu FC played well but a lot of questions would be asked about the Bula FCs performance. Lack of goals and spark continue to let the team down. Bula FC, who started the day one place above Vanuatu, was the better side in the early part of play, missing few golden opportunities. Alex Saniel and Kathy Lamack proved to be the difference makers for Vanuatu as Stephane Auvray’s side rued those missed opportunities. Our subs upped the tempo as they searched for the goals, but Vanuatu stood firm in defence. Luck betrayed the Bula FC as they hit the woodwork twice late on. Roy Krishna’s ailing performance is also a matter of concern. His performance in India is far from what he has been displaying for the Bula FC. Auvray and the Bula FC have a mountain ahead of them. They have let points slip against Tahiti and now Vanuatu. The boy’s morale seems to be on a low, and a concerted, dedicated and determined effort is needed to shake the cobwebs. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
School bus in floodwaters
The viral video of a school bus attempting to cross floodwaters in Vatiyaka, Ba has understandably attracted significant public concern. It is deeply troubling that the driver chose to proceed through a flooded area, thereby placing the lives of schoolchildren at considerable risk. Fortunately, the students were safely rescued from the bus; however, one cannot help but reflect on the potentially catastrophic consequences had the vehicle been swept away. The outcome could have been far more tragic. Such reckless judgement demands serious scrutiny, and appropriate disciplinary action should be taken without delay. The safety of our children must never be compromised under any circumstances. DINESH KUMAR Ba
Safety and efficiency
There have been traffic problems along Princes Road in the past. A few years ago, after speed humps were installed in Tamavua Village, heavy congestion occurred every morning and afternoon on working days. Eventually, the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) removed the humps, bringing relief to motorists. Traffic flowed smoothly again, and drivers — including those operating semi-trailers and public transport — were pleased. However, the relief was short-lived. A speeding driver later knocked down a minor in the village. Safety once again became a serious concern. In response, FRA reinstalled the speed humps. Since then, traffic congestion has returned, with long queues sometimes stretching from the vicinity of Calvary Temple towards Tamavua and even back from Colo-i-Suva heading down to Suva. This situation shows that we are caught between two important needs: road safety and traffic efficiency. Perhaps it is time to consider a long-term solution — the construction of a pedestrian overpass in Tamavua Village. Such an investment would improve safety for residents, especially children, while allowing traffic to flow more smoothly along this busy corridor. A pedestrian overpass could benefit everyone — motorists, villagers, and daily commuters alike. Isn’t it time we explored a solution that balances safety and convenience? Peceli Alistir Waitolu, Naitasiri
Peacekeeping in Gaza
If the Fiji government is thinking of sending peacekeeping troops to Gaza, they better think again. Many of us know that some Fijians believe they are Israelites living in the Pacific. Peacekeepers, I believe should be independent and it is totally untenable that troops who sympathise with Israel should be in a zone where Israel has committed unspeakable atrocities which amounts to genocide. I believe the Fijian government has seen fit not to condemn this atrocity. Indeed, they saw it fit to open an embassy in Jerusalem whilst these atrocities were being committed to “strengthen ties” with Israel. Fiji should make full disclosure before committing to any peacekeeping duties in Gaza. It is only common sense. Jan Nissar Sydney, Australia
Payman and Hanson
The spat between Senator Fatima Payman and Senator Pauline Hanson (FT 24/ 02) was unheard of until recently. These are ominous signs of what is to come in future race relations in Australia. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
FSC funding
Fiji Sports Council CEO Gilbert Vakalalabure while denying the allegation that FSC funds were used to meet the expenses for the grassroots 7s competition has stated that all funding came from external sponsors (FT 23/2). For the sake of transparency and accountability, can he name the sponsors and how much they contributed and how the funding was utilised. Even though the money was raised from sponsorship through his personal effort (as he claimed), isn’t it the duty of the CEO to keep the board informed on such matters? SELWA NANDAN Lautoka
Serial drama
An iTaukei colleague of mine clearly stated that our country is like a TV serial drama, everyday a new case pops up. A flop serial I would say. Jaheed Buksh Korolevu, Sigatoka
FNPF pension
Does crime pay? We were all taught that crime never pays except the FNPF pensioners saga proving otherwise. Dan Urai Lautoka
Military issue
Calls are being made by the public to involve the Fiji military in the war against drugs. Ladies and gentlemen, military involvement centres on whether the drug trade is a law enforcement issue or a national security threat. I believe it’s both because far from being merely a law enforcement issue, the illicit drug trade fuels corruption across all levels. Hopefully, the current Fijian government will soon make the right decision. Sobo! Wise Muavono Balawa, Lautoka
Vehicle import
It is promising that the Minister for Transport is expediting the “review” of vehicle imports and road worthiness. I am certain that one of the major stumbling blocks to traffic congestion is the “uncontrolled” importation of used vehicles. It has exponentially influxed our roads with additional traffic volume annually, for the past 15 years. Presently, I believe what is “adding salt” into the wound, are the outdated traffic lights. These are supposed to “ease” traffic flow, but the opposite has been happening, in my view. The “failure” has been financially damaging to the nation and even foreign visitors. The exercise, if properly managed, in my opinion, should at least ease traffic congestion, while other solutions are being sought. However, it should also be highlighted as a “national interest”, reflecting the current traffic chaos within Fiji’s major urban centres. Samu Silatolu Nakasi
Senior pensioners
Suffering senior pensioners
To the FNPF chairman, CEO, executives, board members, legal team, counsel and actuaries, please know you now believe your very own ‘half truths’ and ‘cooked up figures’. You may fool many, including yourselves.
Our sincere thanks to Professor Wadan Narsey and Justice Daniel Fatiaki – The Fiji Times, Saturday, February 21, 2026 – pages 12 and 13. Their masterpiece speak volumes, beyond doubt. This is truly another biblical ‘David and Goliath’ encounter relived in the modern 21st century. The cabinet ministers’ support to the “new kid on the block”, Minister of Finance’s, absurd statement that fateful Friday, February 13, 2026 — was absolutely contrary to his immediate predecessor, who endorsed the illegality, therein. It was a painful and gut-wrenching blow to me. I could not sleep all night. It was a stab in the heart. An assassination. It will be impossible to fool all the wise betrayed women and men whose pre-2011 pensions were “stolen” at the behest of the now convicted former prime minister, Bainimarama and his once powerful “minister for all” Sayed-Khaiyum. You subscribe to them. What “Constitution?” What law? Where is the so-called “law?” How can an un-elected government proclaim any legality? How? This remains Fiji’s biggest betrayal of senior retirees in their twilight years. This is the Bai and Kai legacy. Our pension with FNPF remains irrevocable. It is an agreement, a solid contract between senior pensioners and FNPF. A legal and binding contract between two parties. How does the illegality of the third party by Bai and Kai’s now dissolved FijiFirst party fit in — by law? Perhaps this could be a matter for some consideration by the International Court of Justice. Am I wrong? (when, in doubt, go right to the top). To Fiji’s extraordinary legal brains trust, please lend us your ears. We are hurting and suffering. We, the betrayed seniors, are much smarter, wiser and knowledgeable than you think. We are poorer in our twilight years. The damage today remains irreparable to about 1400 of us survivors. Legally, and lawfully, karma has it, the truth eventually finds a way to reveal itself. Mark these words. They will not fail. Each time you have your decent meal, try to remember the pain and suffering you inflicted on us, in absolute cruelty. Heartless! May your consciences trouble you at your meal tables … each day; everyday. At day’s end, when I breathe my last, I will leave this world knowing too well, almost 6000 senior pensioners were betrayed. About 4600 have passed on. Today, there about 1400 remaining suffering pensioners who know FNPF lack humanity and the will to right their thievery in broad daylight. The whole financial world today intently watches and observes your heartlessness and inhumanity. These are not empty hollow words. Pain and suffering is etched in our bones. You caused them. Is this the work of true and honest custodians of our fiduciary interests? Volumes have been written. Evidence is readily available. Yet, common sense and goodwill are elusive. This is robbery at its best. Fiji today is tainted because of your heartless irresponsibility. There is a price to pay. You will pay, in God’s good and perfect time. This, I guarantee. Bai and Kai’s so called Constitution was not “a will of the people”. One person in authority holds the “golden key” to the “magical door” to better days for the betrayed seniors pre-2011. He knows best. We count on him; and him alone. This is his hour in this fleeting moment in time. RONNIE CHANG Martintar, Nadi
