Easing weekend traffic
One possible way to reduce the heavy traffic congestion in Nausori Town, particularly on Saturdays, would be to temporarily restrict right turns along selected busy sections of the main streets.
Right-turning vehicles often have to wait for oncoming traffic, blocking the lane behind them.
The above-mentioned creates “bottlenecks” bumper to bumper, slows traffic movement and causes unnecessary congestion, especially on narrow and busy roads.
During peak hours, temporary restrictions could require motorists to continue straight and make a safer turn where possible or alternative turn at designated locations like roundabouts.
I hope the relevant authorities will consider whether a temporary “no right turn during peak hours” arrangement could help ease congestion and improve traffic flow in Nausori Town.
Shamal Chand Kuku Village, Nausori
FNPF issue
I have a million dollar question to all our elected leaders; present and past; (and unelected at the time); all right thinking women and men; the well-educated; the not-so-educated; our NGO leaders; all religious leaders; the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-discrimination Society; including the entire FNPF team — from chairman of the board; CEO, Executive and Legal team members etc, is it also cruel, inhumane, grossly disrespectful to deny the surviving about 1400 senior betrayed FNPF pensioners their hard-earned pensions forcibly reduced by the then government headed by former prime minister, Voreqe Bainimarama and his right-hand man — Finance Minister – Attorney-General, Aiyaz Saiyed-Khaiyum?
Aren’t we, the betrayed elders humans and also have a right to our daily bread, comfort and monthly medical needs?
If this is not cruelty towards the elderly, where is the justice, in this country?
Doesn’t the “Vuvale Creed” apply to the ageing local. “Qase?”
Sa dua na butako levu dina qai madua. Sa dua na itovo lutusoba dina. Sa yali na veilomani; na veitauriliga. O Viti dina beka oqo?
Does Decree 51 and 52 apply to us only the betrayed seniors; and not the social elites who take five figure monthly pensions, and okay, only for them to seek redress at the courts?
Is there a separate law for the rich, powerful and famous in Fiji?
Why are we discriminated against, almost endlessly?
Will this inhumanity end as soon as possible? Some of us, the silent minority, are very desperate.
Ronnie Chang Martintar, Nadi
Hibiscus returns to Albert Park
Fondly known as ‘Mother of all Festivals’, the Hibiscus Festival, Fiji’s oldest festival, marks 70 years of existence. The iconic community festival holds a special place in the hearts of Fijians.
What started in 1956 at Albert Park in a bid to bring communities together, the Hibiscus Festival has evolved as a symbol of unity and national pride. Apart from the crowning, Fijians look forward to the cultural activities, delicious food, and amusement rides.
Beginning from today, thousands of people from all walks of life will converge to cherish every moment of the 70th anniversary of the Hibiscus Festival which reflects our cultural and social journey.
The event empowers young women as they showcase their talent, communication and engage with the public.
On the 70th anniversary, I commend the organising committee for bringing back the iconic festival to its home — Albert Park which stands as a remarkable legacy of community spirit and shared celebration.
What a theme, ‘Ours to celebrate’! As I look forward to the crowning night, I reflect on an article published on June 16, 2024, by Serafina Silatoga titled ‘The highs and lows of Queen Liebling’.
The article was based on Liebling Marlow, the dazzling queen of 1956. Winning the first Miss Hibiscus crown was an extraordinary fete, one that Marlow will always cherish in the treasure holds of her heart.
She vividly described her journey – from preparation to the crowning night. It was a joy to read about her experience as she shared the anxiety that she had over the yellow dress she wore, sewn by her mum, the late Faga Bentley.
Unknown to the mesmerised public and judges, the zip of her dress was missing, but on that night, the slender and elegant 18-year-old in yellow dress was crowned the country’s first Miss Hibiscus. When her name was announced as the Hibiscus Queen, she tightly held onto the hands of the judge and just burst into tears. It was a special moment for her.
Marlow shared that during those colonial days the festival was pretty much family oriented and fun. As she concluded her story, she had a timely message for the readers, “Life is beautiful. We should learn to always forgive and just love everybody!”
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
A special occassion
If the Hibiscus Festivals is declared the Mother of all Festivals, then is there space and opportunity for a Father of all Festivals?
Whatever one’s opinion, the food, cultural items and sales, truly makes the Hibiscus a special occasion for our community members including our children who are on holiday. I really look forward to the floats and lovo food on sale.
Floyd Robinson Micronesia
Bill too much
I think I know what will bring Fiji’s kava industry crashing down.
The proposed Kava Bill.
Rice bill, ginger bill, sugar bill, and all, I can’t remember any proving successful in terms of industry growth and sustainability.
The biggest problem at the moment is the power bill.
Donald Singh Nausori
Sweet cravings
Just like the “Fiji Airways tax” that the hotels need to pay, there should be a “FSC tax” which should be applied to all local and imported sugar.
That way all the “sugar daddies” and “sugar mummies” can support the sugar industry.
FSC should then solely survive on the tax built for them.
Your sweet cravings will then be linked to a social cause and you won’t feel that guilty anymore.
Kiran Khatri Samabula, Suva
CJ’s remark
Opposition MP Hon Premila Kumar is absolutely right in questioning the appropriateness of the remark made by Chief Justice that the Commission of Inquiry into the appointment of former FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali.
His dismissal of the COI as “money wasted” is like throwing out the baby with the bath water.
For the High Court did find that it was inappropriate for Ms Malimali to be appointed FICAC Commissioner when she was under a criminal investigation.
Therefore, I believe, it raises questions about the integrity of the process involved in her appointment.
SELWA NANDAN Lautoka
Sign boards
Would it not be possible to install neighbourhood area name sign boards for easy identification for any business.
Raiwasa, Raiwaqa, Rifle Range, etc. For example, like Nabua Town.
Asish Vinay Prasad Park Road, Raiwasa, Suva
Dr Sharma delivers
Dr SharmA continues to deliver his thorough analyses, deep insights, sharp critiques and powerful commentary on a wide range of issues affecting Fiji.
Fiji has rarely had a person of his intellect, education and life expertise contributing so consistently and vigorously to our national debate.
His analyses and emphatic practical solutions put our elected MPs to shame.
Dr Sharma pulls no punches, and calls out mis-information, mis-management, and political posturing for what it is.
But Dr Sharma has made clear that he does not intend to stand in the upcoming elections; which news must have been received with a sigh of relief by our supposedly knowledgeable and more educated political elite.
But I wonder then, how does Dr Sharma hope to effect the many and much needed changes he has so lucidly and emphatically urged?
What will be his legacy after the next election?
Although it is said that the pen is mightier than the sword, can Dr Sharma influence and shape public policy merely from his Letters to the Editor and from the pages of our daily newspapers?
I sincerely hope that Dr Sharma will reconsider his position and will offer his services for the betterment of our society, as our nation needs people like him now, more than ever.
Aren Nunnink Hooper Street, Savusavu
Free show in the city!
It was certainly reassuring to learn from the good COMPOL that overall crime statistics have dropped, although the situation on the ground often suggests otherwise. I was under the impression that various forms of brazen criminal behaviour were increasing by the day, with the vulnerable victims being of primarily Indo-Fijians – no surprises there.
Anyway, I can rest assured that “Rusi” and his men have made no significant changes to their efforts to curb and apprehend drunkards engaged in public drinking here in Lautoka, particularly around the Hot Bread Kitchen and the Pacific Energy Service Station, directly opposite.
What makes this situation even more astonishing is that the Lautoka Police Station is only metres away from this notorious drinking hotspot.
I have raised this issue numerous times through The Fiji Times letter channel, yet nothing appears to have changed positively.
I have now decided to stop writing about it, having lost faith in the ability, or perhaps the willingness of our spineless police officers to enforce the law and address the nuisance created by these habitual public drinkers.
However, I have decided to turn this daily spectacle into a positive experience.
My early morning walks now come with free entertainment, courtesy of Lautoka’s unofficial street performers.
The daily program can include alcohol-fueled youths involved in physical confrontation, shouting obscenities in iTaukei, harassing morning walkers, dancing half-naked, urinating wherever they please and eventually passing out on the cold pavement.
And, of course, the highlight of the morning is the occasional “scrap” between the intoxicated patrons. Funny indeed.
Who needs Netflix when you can have all these theatrics on your doorstep?
Perhaps I should be grateful, while other cities have to pay for entertainment, Lautoka residents get theirs for free every morning.
No tickets required.
Just bring your walking shoes and perhaps a helmet.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show performed by groups of lowlifes.
Nishant Singh Lautoka
An early Father’s Day gift!
A father’s dream – to see his son excel on the sports field and be part of the Deans competition’s success. Ratu Anare Iosefo Tuisolia was no exception. He has been a father and mother to his son, Ratu Manueli Rotuisolia, supporting him to fulfil his dream of lifting the coveted, the prestigious U-18 Deans trophy.
Rotuisolia was part of the Suva Grammar School under-18 team that beat Lelean Memorial School 36-21 to end a 21-year-old drought. He was the anchor-part of the Lions brutal and devastating forward pack that set the foundation and platform for that scintillating and historic victory.
Rotuisolia has maternal links to Togalevu Village and paternal links to Sawana, Vanuabalavu. He attended St Thomas Aquinas Primary School and then Suva Grammar and is an asset as a tight-head and loose-head prop. Rotuisolia has two siblings, Adi Laiseane Rokotupou Rotuisolia and Adi Varanisese Rotuisolia, who are companions and a motherly figure to their brother.
Rotuisolia was part of the Lami Seasiders under-13 and under-14 teams, and he won the under-14 Milo Kaji Rugby trophy. He was part of the Suva Grammar team that won the under-16 trophy in 2024, beating Lelean 29-14. Rotuisolia and the Suva Grammar under-16 boys toured New Zealand, where they won four of their matches.
His dad was elated with his son’s achievement, dedicating the victory to God, coaches Epeli Osborne and Orisi Vukinavanua, and Sam Speight. Family support has been an integral part of Rotuisolia’s success. They supported him during his fundraising and ensured they were on the sideline.
Rotuisolia went through injuries but survived. The Bible verse, Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’, carried him through as he works on securing a spot in the Fiji Drua development squad and a scholarship to play rugby in Japan or Europe, emulating the success of his cousin brother Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, who played as a lock for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua side. Rotuisolia prepared well for the Deans, starting from the school holidays last year and was part of the Suva Grammar team that took part in the Koroturaga Competition. Rotuisolia’s hard work, sacrifice and unwavering commitment paid off as he was part of the history making Suva Grammar under-18 team.
As a writer, I believe it is important to share his story, so rugby lovers are aware of him. For dad, Ratu Anare, the journey was massive and long. His valuable support and unconditional love kept Rotuisolia striving forward. Rotuisolia’s first cousin, Ratu Leone Rotuisolia, who played as half-back and second five-eighth was part of the Grammar under-18 team as well. What a moment for a beautiful, loving and caring family!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Approval rating
President Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to its lowest level in his second term according to a Reuters/ Ipsos poll. That’s good news. Shows more and more Americans have come to realise (some belatedly) that Mr Trump is not a fit and proper person to hold the highest office of the country.
I believe millions of Americans knew that from the very beginning.
Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
Vehicle dealers
New car buyers have been urged by the Consumer Council of Fiji to exercise caution when purchasing vehicles from dealers who fail to provide proper after-sales support, lack technical expertise, or cannot readily provide spare parts for servicing.
I couldn’t agree more. There are some very dodgy and unethical vehicle dealers operating in the market who appear more interested in making a quick buck than building a reputable and sustainable business. They will roll out the red carpet, make all sorts of promises and bend over backwards to secure the sale. But once the vehicle changes hands and the money is in their bank account, suddenly the customer becomes someone else’s problem.
If the Consumer Council cannot publicly name these “chor” car dealers, perhaps it could take the more constructive approach of publishing a list of reputable vehicle dealers, particularly second-hand vehicle sellers who have demonstrated honest, ethical and responsible business practices and provide genuine after-sales support. This will enable buyers to make informed decisions as purchasing a vehicle is a major financial commitment for the average Fijian
After all, the consumer watchdog should not only advise people who to be wary of, it should also help them identify who they can trust. As mentioned, there are a lot of cunning “chor” dealers out there patiently waiting like vultures to pounce on their next prey.
Nishant Singh Lautoka
Kite flying
Gaza parents urged to stop children flying kites (Reuters/FT27/8/26). What a crying shame for the children of Gaza who hardly have any other form of recreational activity in their war ravaged home-land. Thank God I grew up in Fiji in the 1960s when kite flying-kite fighting was a mainstay in the lives of children.
Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
Going Digital
THE evolving digital innovation and technology instantly deliver news on social media platforms.
People get access to news and information in a short span of time, and I’m glad that our historic, traditional form of media, The Fiji Times, has adapted well and continues to deliver news instantly.
I commend the team managing our oldest newspaper for continuously making significant investments to cope with the advent of the digital ability to deliver news.
Former general manager and publisher, the late Hank Arts, was instrumental with the editor-in-chief, Fred Wesley, in getting digital innovation to improve news and information accessibility to readers, and since then there has been no looking back.
Wesley shares the preview of the next day’s newspaper via social media, and I look forward to it as it gives an insight into what readers could expect on the front page and some ‘big hits’ that would feature as content.
The Fiji Times E-edition is popular as well. Investment in digitalisation is the way forward. The Fiji Times Facebook page has 728k followers and news and information come hand as they happen. Wananavu, The Fiji Times!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Racism claim
Church rejects racism claim (FT 28/8). But there would inevitably be the lingering question why Rev Dr Anil Rueben, who has served the Methodist Church for 50 years has been sidelined for the top post in the church?
In the same way reasonable, fair-minded observers would wonder how come no Indo-Fijian is part of the president’s delegation to the September United Nations General Assembly?
I believe there is a perception that the sidelining of Indo-Fijians has been a common feature in post coup Fiji.
That might explain the Indo-Fijian brain-drain from post-coup Fiji.
Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
Embracing respect and compassion
IN celebrations on the occasion of Prophet Mohammed’s birthday, Prime Minister, Rabuka and several Cabinet ministers talked about embracing compassion, respect and unity.
Their speeches included looking out for one another.
First lesson is compassion, we are told.
All the above statements are so eloquent.
Can these sentiments also apply to the all the surviving 1400 betrayed senior FNPF pensioners and their spouses, families and loved ones, please?
The Minister of Finance, appears to be on a different page or hymn sheet. Procrastination is not the preferred choice.
The Prime Minister holds that proverbial “Golden key” to unlock that door and ease our financial stress, worries, pain and suffering inflicted by both FB and ASK, as they artfully colluded with FNPF – Fiji and the South Pacific’s largest financial institution.
Man-made illegal decrees to hurt elderly pensioners in their pockets, can be easily corrected by better and able women and men. The festering hurt must end as soon as practically possible.
Can deeds be brought to the forefront now, please?
Practising what we preach is now sorely tested.
Please do not continue to hurt the elderly pensioners endlessly. They too need to survive. They too need daily bread, some comfort, a roof over their heads and monthly medical prescriptions.
Is it so difficult to right yesterday’s wrong?
The Media Decree was corrected too easily. By the same sane measure Decree 51, and 52, need immediate proactive correction.
Many elderly betrayed pensioners are desperate.
Please have a heart. Tomorrow could be too late for me.
Ronnie Chang Martintar, Nadi
Fiji Airways and green energy
IT was good to hear the Tourism Minister extolling the virtues of green energy and referenced Fiji Airways initiatives to move to biofuels to offset the expensive aviation fuels with all its negatives such as costs, unreliability and impact on environment.
I have also been seeing the nauseating videos on Fiji Airways flights claiming the airline had actually embarked on using these alternatives, which are locally produced and allegedly ‘renewable’.
Is this claim true? Where is Fiji in relation to producing biofuels from sugar cane processing bi-products.
We also recently saw a video of the Sugar Minister with a Brazilian sugar producer wo was actually doing this. Did this information ever translate into anything tangible for Fiji?
I am aware of Fiji Airways mangrove planting initiative which is welcome although the contribution it will make to carbon capture is debatable given the scale of emissions from the tourism sector.
As participants, including international media and civil society, head to Fiji for pre COP, maybe we should verify the facts before making claims which may become embarrasing.
Altauf Chand Minto, NSW, Australia
Festival of love
RAKSHA Bandhan, the festival of love, was to be celebrated by the Hindu community on Friday, August 28, 2026, across the globe. It falls in the month of Shravan (August) on a full moon day (Purnima).
It is a festival which marks the sacred bond of love between brothers and sisters to consolidate lifelong relationships. Sisters tie a rakhi (thread) on the wrist of their brothers’ after an emotional prayer and arti ritual.
In many cases tears roll down their cheeks. Brothers give gifts as a symbol of their love and promise for lifelong protection. The thread becomes a sacred talisman! Sweets galore!
This is a tradition which is deeply rooted in Vedic culture: mentioned in Atharva Veda. It signifies the sacredness and divinity of relationships amongst the siblings.
The girls will marry and go away but the bond of love will continue thereafter. Brothers eagerly await for the next Raksha Bandhan to arrive to renew the brother-sister relationship.
Raksha Bandhan festival enables the bonding process to continue.
In modern times the distances have increased as the families are scattered across the globe.
The modern communications technology and digital age enables people to organise digital Raksha Bandhan.
The story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi is often recalled to impress the importance of the festival.
Draupadi tied a piece of cloth on the wrist of Krishna and sought protection during her humiliation in public.
The Hindu philosophy of mutual obligation and divine grace in human relationships is sacred. It emphasises that love and duty, when consecrated, become sacred bonds.
Festival seasons are also good for the business community as their sales go up.
Radio, television and print media churn out advertisements to attract the gift buyers.
May I wish all Hindu brothers and sisters a very happy Raksha Bandhan celebration.
Dewan Chand Namadi Heights, Suva
Fire-fighting equipment
IT is noted with great concern the abuse of fire-fighting equipment and the misuse of a fire hose reel at the Kidney Foundation office in Nasinu.
The hose reel has been detached or probably fell off its mounting and now supports a sitting bench with a damage leg stand.
This practice is highly unsafe, poses serious occupational health, safety risks and the duty of care falls both on the landlord and the tenant.
I believe that the patients also go through a dialysis treatment that could be time consuming and should a fire break-out, the result can be catastrophic.
The same complex houses a large supermarket, a pharmacy and other outlets that has the 2026 OHS and the National Fire Authority certification.
Fire hose reels are critical emergency equipment designed for immediate use in the event of a fire.
Using them as furniture or support structures compromises their accessibility and functionality.
This matter is urgent, as misuse of fire safety equipment undermines the safety of staff, patients, and visitors.
I trust that the Kidney Foundation will treat this concern with the seriousness it deserves and implement corrective measures promptly.
Satish Nakched Suva
Dolly Parton – A uniting force
In an era when division has become the default language of American politics, Dolly Parton stood as a rare and radiant exception.
She was neither Republican nor Democrat, preferring instead to call herself a “hypo–crat”.
That playful humility masked a deeper truth: Dolly belonged to everyone.
Her music, philanthropy, and wit transcended ideology. She could be praised in the same breath by President Donald Trump and the Democratic Socialists of America — a feat unimaginable for almost any other public figure. She turned down the Presidential Medal of Freedom not out of disdain, but because she refused to let her legacy be tethered to partisan symbolism.
Dolly’s genius was not only in her songs, but in her ability to embody empathy. She funded children’s literacy, disaster relief, and even vaccine research.
She sang of acceptance — of preachers and addicts, of the gay and the straight — and lived that message with grace. She could stand between Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin as they denounced political hypocrisy, and with a single joke, dissolve tension into laughter.
In a nation starved for unity, Dolly Parton reminded us that love, humor, and generosity can still bridge divides. She was not just a country star; she was America’s last bipartisan icon.
Her passing leaves us with a question: who, if anyone, can step into that role? For now, perhaps the best tribute is to carry forward her example — to criticise less, to accept more, and to remember that the coat of many colours she cherished was stitched from rags yet worn with pride.
Dr Sushil K Sharma Lautoka
Selling with dignity!
By far, one of the best stories I have read via the People column! Titled “Selling with dignity”, the story was shared by award winning journalist John Kamea.
It featured Adi Kelera Vakatovo, from Nukuilau, Navosa, and Inise Sauvana of Wainiyavu Namosi.
I loved their simple message to women — never look down on yourself.
I salute the duo for turning their roadside trade by the roadside in Vatukarasa, Nadroga, into family strength.
For the duo, the bustling roadside, full of passing vehicles and pedestrians, is more than a place to sell as it is a way of keeping their families going.
Both women resort to selling to keep their family members alive as proceeds from the sales help meet their family needs and wants.
Their message (FT: 28/08) was timely as Fijians grapple with the rising cost of living, “For women out there, every sale counts. Every dollar earned helps put food on the table, pay a bill and keep their families moving forward.”
These lines (FT: 28/08) touched hearts, “There is dignity in honest work and strength in a woman willing to do whatever she can for the people she loves. There’s no shame in that but something we should be proud of.”
Isa, we have such resilient and women amongst us, taking the hard yards for their loved ones.
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Answer to NCDs
The market overflowing,
vegetables and fruits aplenty.
Vendors try their best at selling,
but buyers are not too many.
The answer to NCDs,
is right there in front of you.
but you rather buy things sugary
and processed foods too.
We need a total mind reset
and eat what our forefathers ate.
Buy fresh veggies instead,
hoping the change is not too late.
At the end of the market day,
unsold veggies and fruits are discarded.
The vendors return to homes far away,
but not always empty — handed.
The cycle continues each week this way,
with less buyers and more sellers.
Supermarkets are full each day,
we don’t seem to know any better!
Edward Blakelock Admirals Circle, Pacific Harbour
Nadi Back Road
The Nadi Back Road is essential to the daily routines of the community.
It not only meets the needs of residents but also ensures the seamless transit of travellers, including tourists, to and from the airport every day.
The development of this road marks a significant advancement in alleviating the traffic congestion that would otherwise fall entirely on Queens Road.
However, it is crucial to bring attention to several urgent issues that require immediate action.
First and foremost, I strongly urge the authorities to tackle the absence of vital safety features that have been overlooked since the road was first built.
For example, there are currently no barriers along the stretch to safeguard motorists from the peril of falling into the deep drains adjacent to the road.
Installing these barriers is not merely an infrastructure upgrade — it is a fundamental measure to enhance safety and potentially save lives.
The Nadi and Sigatoka highway serves as an excellent model in this context.
Another pressing issue is the insufficient width of the road. Currently, the road is too narrow to accommodate two-way traffic smoothly, particularly when larger vehicles are present.
Clearly, covering the drains to expand the road would significantly help resolve this problem, ensuring a safer and more efficient driving experience.
Additionally, it is important to point out that there are no streetlights along this road, making night time driving especially hazardous.
The lack of adequate lighting heightens the risks for both drivers and pedestrians after dark. By installing streetlights, the overall safety and functionality of the road could be vastly improved.
Moreover, it is worth mentioning that road markings are also missing, which further complicates navigation and safety. In summary, while this road is undeniably a crucial lifeline for the area, there is an urgent need to rectify these deficiencies.
With focused efforts on safety features, road width, lighting, and proper road markings, the Nadi Back Road can truly realise its potential as a safe and efficient route for everyone who travels it.
Suresh Chand Nadi
Security and safety
Shamal Chand’s letter in The Fiji Times LTE (17/8) is timely and it is shocking when some taxidrivers are punched by criminals.
They are at risk trying to earn a decent living as they struggle to put food on the table.
This is too scary and in some cases it also endangers passengers who desperately need taxis.
We all need our security in travelling. This should also promote tourism as we always advertise safety, security and Fiji as a place to visit to relax for holidays.
Security and safety for all matters most.
Tahir Ali Hamilton, New Zealand
Debt burden
Government debt projected to hit $11.37billion ahead of elections (by Anish Chand FT 9/6/26. Republished in Grubsheet Feejee 25/8/26).
The debt burden for the small island nation, with a small economy and a very small population of less than one million is “still growing”.
But the political class in the country did not need to tighten their belt. Their privileges and perks including overseas junkets and staggering pay rise remained intact. And there is always the donor partners to bail us out of our financial burdens to keep China at bay.
The people of Fiji are blessed to have the political leadership they have.
Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
All Blacks brace for wounded Springboks!
The 33-16 loss to the All Blacks on home soil during the first of the four-match series in ‘Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry’ badly hurt coach Rassie Erasmus and the Springboks.
Firstly, their 12-match unbeaten run in all competitions came to an end.
Secondly, they were displaced as the world’s number one rugby team, a position they occupied since September 15, 2025. That ranking, which meant so much to the green machine, changed on that fateful Sunday morning at Ellis Park in Johannesburg when they were hammered 33-16 by a spirited All Blacks outfit, whose ‘bomb squad’ of Asafo Aumua, George Bower and Fletcher Newell did the damage in the second half.
The second Test at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town tomorrow morning will be massive and brutal. The Springboks will aim to erase bitter memories of the embarrassing and humiliating 33-16 loss in front of their passionate fans. The All Blacks have won seven of their 11 Tests against the Springboks in Cape Town, although their last victory there came on October 8, 2017, when they won by a point (25-24) at the Newlands Stadium.
On September 8, 2024, at the Cape Town Stadium in Cape Town, the Springboks beat the All Blacks 18-12. While the All Blacks are searching for back-to-back wins in South Africa, it will not be easy.
Pieter-Steph du Toit, who will play his 100th Test, will want a memorable victory. Loosehead prop Ox Nche will make his 50th appearance, so he will be on fire. Siya Kolisi could make his return, and the return of experienced Handre Pollard and Cobus Reinach will be exciting to watch.
The second Test will be a test of the resilience, fighting spirit and character of players in both teams, starting with the challenge coming from the Haka. It’s getting heated up. Go, ABs!
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Bone-crunching encounter
Is the second Test match between the New Zealand All Blacks and South Africa, the most anticipated match of 2026? To hand the South Africa team a defeat in front of its fans last week, at home, is a nightmare for Springbok fans. Does the All Blacks team have what it takes to earn a second victory or are the Springboks capable of dismantling the 100 per cent winning record for the new All Blacks coach? Whatever one’s opinion, it boils down to a bone crunching encounter and the ability to capitalise on mistakes. I am looking forward to this match as it does influence predictions to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Floyd RobinsonMicronesia
Second Test!
The mighty Boks,
were totally shocked,
at that second-half comeback.
A different approach they surely need,
if they are to beat the ABs this week.
Rennie and Erasmus,
to meet in private before the game.
If they’re to really discuss,
their game plans? that’s a real shame!
Let’s wait and see who is outplayed,
by early morning Sunday,
If the results are too far- fetched
than some skull-duggery is at play!
Edward Blakelock Admirals Circle, Pacific Harbour
Teachers, students, drugs
Fiji is deeply concerned at the rising number of students caught with drugs in our schools, as reported by the Ministry of Education.
Even one child lost to drugs is one too many.
At the same time, we are troubled by the ongoing issue raised by the Fijian Teachers Association regarding teachers who have been acting in positions for up to four years without receiving their acting allowances, or having them withdrawn. Teachers cannot carry out their work well if they are not paid what is due to them especially in fighting this drug menace in our schools. Fiji needs teachers co-operation and support and their salaries and allowances are crucial in our fight against drugs.
We need to work together and:
- Form drug-free vanua committees in every secondary school, led by heads of schools, headteachers, turaganikoro, church leaders, parents and students.
- Have a parent talanoa nights in every district, to educate and equip families.
- Have more school counsellors and after-school sports and skills programs to give our children hope and purpose.
The home, the school, the church and the vanua must stand together. The Government cannot do this alone. We need collaboration.
Our teachers are on the frontline. They are teaching our children and keeping them safe. It is only right that we respect them and pay them their salaries and allowances.
The nation should stand ready to assist our teachers. The nation should use our existing networks in the provinces, the tikina, and the churches to help deliver these solutions on the ground.
To our parents: We see your worry.
To our teachers: We see your sacrifice.
To our children: We will not give up on you.
The strength of the nation is the strength of our homes. And our homes are strong when our children are safe and our teachers are respected.
Mikaele Leawere Galoa Village, Batiwai, Serua
Public criticism
Former acting Director of Public Prosecutions Aca Rayawa contends Opposition MP Premila Kumar is liable for criminal prosecution for questioning Chief Justice Salesi Temo’s view that the COI was “money wasted”.
He apparently treats Chief Justice Temo as a sacred cow beyond public criticism.
That sounds to me like the modus operandi of the totalitarian/communist state which does not tolerate criticism and even free speech.
Fiji is a democracy and criticism as part of the public discourse is an essential part of our democracy.
State functionaries must remember that and not use a sledge hammer to crack a nut every time they find a criticism unpalatable.
Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
Crime stats
The report (FV 27/08/26) “Police report drop in major crimes despite public concerns”, presents figures that suggest burglary, robbery, aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary and theft have declined. Yet any police commissioner worth his salt knows that statistics are only as reliable as the reporting period, the willingness of victims to lodge complaints, and the accuracy of frontline recording.
In Fiji today, anecdotal evidence paints a very different picture. Taxidrivers assaulted, homeless men killed in Lautoka, women trafficked, raped and subjected to incest, and the spread of narcotics through Tailevu and beyond — these are not abstractions. They are lived realities. The HIV/AIDS epidemic and the drug trade floating through our seas are compounding factors that no aggregate statistic can conceal.
To claim crime has dropped is a red herring. Aggregating all offences into one figure dilutes the seriousness of categories that are in fact rising. As scholars have long warned, statistics can be manipulated to “prove” almost anything. Without disaggregated data on violent crime, sexual offences, drug-related offences, and crimes against vulnerable groups, the public cannot meaningfully scrutinise police performance.
If the commissioner truly wants credibility, he must throw open the full book of crime data — category by category, district by district — and allow independent analysis. Only then can we test whether the supposed 11 per cent reduction reflects reality or statistical sleight of hand. Until that transparency is provided, the claim of falling crime rates cannot be substantiated against the daily experiences of ordinary Fijians.
Dr Sushil K Sharma Lautoka
