Past, present and coats
Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has decided to courage up and has said that “the 2013 Constitution failed to adequately reflect the voice and participation of the Fijian people”. Pretty strategic Mr LoP, especially this close to elections, for you to join the masses in pursuit of a new Constitution. I can only wonder loudly whether Mr Seruiratu ever said the same to his bosses between September 2013 and December 2022. If yes, then we need to know what the response or feedback was back then. If no, then I totally understand. Question the bosses, lose your position. Not easy sara ga being a politician. You have to keep different colour hats and coats. The same coat could also be black outside and white inside, wearable both sides. So, that’s the origin of the word turncoat. Donald Singh Nausori Who has spoken? Inia Seruiratu stated that the 2013 Constitution didn’t reflect the people’s voice (FT 28/10/26). Was he not one of the “stalwarts” of the former FijiFirst Party? After all this time, why is he speaking now? It isn’t the first time, I am certain, that he has made such a political comment, as if he had nothing to do with it. Look at Mr Naivalurua and similar FFP defectors, who are now government ministers. Did they show loyalty and commitment? Even Mr Seruiratu for that matter. Were they not reflecting their own characters? Sometimes, typical characters are exposed in “broad daylight” and yet, they do not even realise it. In fact, an enemy can’t betray, because an enemy is an enemy, in my opinion. Only a friend, acquittance, comrade or family member, I believe, can do that. So, who has spoken? Be aware Fiji, the next General Election is approaching.
Samu Silatolu
Nakasi
Toxic backyard
burning
IT is alarming to see people burning household rubbish using old tires and waste engine oil. This releases toxic fumes that threaten public health, pollute the air and contaminate the environment. When smoke and foul dour persist throughout the night, the entire neighborhoods suffer. If littering in town can attract an on-the-spot fine, why should toxic backyard burning be treated differently? I urge relevant authorities to consider similar penalties for off enders, supported by random inspections and patrols. Unlike hidden offences, burning often provides visible evidence through smoke and active fires, allowing officers to investigate and take appropriate action. Clean air is a public right, not a privilege! Authorities must act to ensure that irresponsible waste disposal does not come at the expense of public health and community wellbeing.
SHAMAL CHAND
Kuku Village, Nausori
Missing
money
IN April 2022, $850,000 went missing while being transported from Westpac’s Savusavu branch to its main office in Suva at Labasa Airport. Nearly four years later, I believe the theft remains unsolved. People are rightfully asking how the investigation is progressing and whether anyone will be held accountable. Since the theft occurred in one specific place and only a limited number of people likely handled or had access to the money, why hasn’t it been solved yet? Have investigators determined exactly when and where the money disappeared? Have they spoken with all witnesses, and do their accounts match the records? These are reasonable questions. However, a small location doesn’t guarantee a quick or simple investigation. A cash theft during transport typically requires investigators to trace the entire journey of the money, not just focus on where it vanished. This involves examining how the cash was packaged, sealed, documented, transported and handed over at each stage. Bank employees, transport workers, airport staff, security personnel and anyone else with relevant knowledge may need to be interviewed not necessarily as suspects, but because their information could help establish a clear timeline and identify security gaps. Other standard procedures include preserving CCTV footage before deletion, reviewing access logs and transport documents, inspecting packages or seals for tampering, and comparing witness statements. When evidence and legal authorisation exist, investigators may also examine communications, financial transactions or unusual purchases. Police, the bank, airport authorities and transport companies must collaborate. Protecting evidence is equally important so that if charges are filed, the case will stand up in court.
SURESH CHAND
Nadi
Who has
spoken?
INIA Seruiratu stated that the 2013 Constitution didn’t reflect the people’s voice (FT28/10/26). Was he not one of the “stalwarts” of the former FijiFirst Party? After all this time, why is he speaking now? It isn’t the first time, I am certain, that he has made such a political comment, as if he had nothing to do with it. Look at Mr Naivalurua and similar FFP defectors, who are now government ministers. Did they show loyalty and commitment? Even Mr Seruiratu for that matter. Were they not reflecting their own characters? Sometimes, typical characters are exposed in “broad day light” and yet, they do not even realise it. In fact, an enemy can’t betray, because an enemy is an enemy, in my opinion. Only a friend, acquittance, comrade or family member, I believe, can do that. So, who has spoken? Be aware Fiji, the next General Election is approaching.
SAMU SILATOLU
Nakasi
War of opinions
IT seems everyone and anyone has an opinion on what the constitution should look like and what it should or not contain. While we all await the next stage of the constitutional process, all these opinions will also divide the minds of the general public come the next general election. I just hope none of our politicians is telling a lie and slaying each other for their respective political mileage and survival as a politician.
JUKI FONG CHEW
Nadawa, Nasinu
All set
DONALD Singh’s amusing letter ‘OK set’ (FT 24/10) may be the only place in the world where things are temporarily set. I believe things will be only set with the new constitution with the set of new democratic government. We all will be set then. Please set constitution first before we all are ‘set’. God bless Fiji and all Fijians.
TAHIR ALI
Hamilton, New Zealand
Travelling to Australia
WHEN will the “Vuvavale” arrangement allow Fijian citizens to travel to Australia without having to fork out nearly $290 plus for a visa? Kemudou Australian government!
COLIN DEOKI
Australia
Fans in the heat
IN this summer heat, we visited a friend on his day off. Nearly five fans were pointed at us! I told my friends: “We’re the bodies, and these fans are our friends attending our funeral!”
NAVNEET RAM (TD)
Lautoka
Role
model
RATU Epeli Bigitibau Kavurunalase Osborne, who was laid to rest on Saturday, had a wonderful journey as a human being. The speeches that were delivered were full of superlatives for a man who was described as a great role model, an inspiration and a man who had the heart of a lion. Osborne’s efforts and passion as a player and coach were hailed. His kindness, caring nature and unconditional love built and nurtured sports personalities and helped Suva Grammar end a 21-year-old drought in the Deans competition. As a fatherly figure, he changed lives and had a positive impact on the players he coached. He believed in unity. Osborne meant so much to his U-18 rugby boys who were his pallbearers. The emotions on their faces were evident of the legacy that he left behind. Osborne gave so much to Suva Grammar, and the dark veil of sorrow, unity and to getherness signified the passing away of a great man. Rest high, coach! Thank you for being a true gentleman! Thank you for your service as a great role model!
RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM
Nadawa, Nasinu
