Miss Hibiscus 2026
WHO will be crowned Miss Hibiscus 2026? As in previous years, the outcome may well come down to the contestants’ responses to the final one or two questions posed by the judges. All our Hibiscus contestants look beautiful this year, and I particularly admire the hibiscus tekiteki worn by our people during this week. While we all have our favourites, may the best contestant win. More importantly, I hope this experience serves as a valuable stepping stone in their careers and personal development of these talented young women. I also look forward to the float procession and hope participating groups showcase plenty of creativity. The floats are always a highlight of the festival and add to the excitement and colour of the celebrations. Best wishes to all the contestants and everyone involved in making Hibiscus 2026 a memorable event. FLOYD ROBINSON Micronesia
Smart upgrades needed
THE streetlights at Kuku Village were still switched on well after natural morning light had arrived. While it is understandable that the lights operate on a timer, relying solely on fixed timing can result in electricity being used when it is no longer necessary, particularly when sunrise times and daylight conditions vary. A better and more efficient approach would be to install light sensors or photocells, which automatically switch streetlights on when it gets dark and off when sufficient daylight is available. This may seem like a small issue, but across numerous streetlights and over many days, unnecessary electricity consumption becomes an avoidable expense ultimately borne by taxpayers. Authorities should consider upgrading the system to light sensors. Every dollar saved through better management is money that can be used elsewhere for the benefit of the community. SHAMAL CHAND Kuku Village, Nausori
Fertility research must go deeper
MEDIA reports Fiji’s fertility rate has fallen to 2.27 children per woman, down from approximately four in the late 20th century. Dr Sumeet Lal notes the crude birth rate has also declined, with Fiji’s median age rising from 18.3 years in 1980 to 27.7 years in 2023. These figures confirm a demographic transition towards smaller families and slower growth. However, the analysis presented is incomplete. In a nation as diverse as Fiji, national averages mask critical differences. Anecdotal evidence and prior demographic studies suggest fertility rates among indigenous iTaukei remain higher than among Indo–Fijians. Without disaggregating data by ethnicity, policymakers cannot identify where pressures are most acute. Fertility patterns also diverge between rural and urban areas, and across occupational groups. Farmers in rural communities may sustain larger families, while urban wage earners face different constraints. Aggregated statistics obscure these realities. Why does this matter? First, education planning: If iTaukei fertility remains higher, rural schools will face greater enrolment pressures, requiring targeted investment. Second, health services: Maternal and child health programs must be scaled to communities with higher birth rates. Third, employment and youth policy: Larger family sizes in certain groups mean more young people entering the labour market, demanding tailored training and job creation. Fourth, pensions and ageing: Indo–Fijian communities with lower fertility may confront ageing sooner, requiring different social protection. Without disaggregation, resource allocation risks being misaligned. Research must also move beyond description. To state that fertility is falling is not enough. The question is always: What next? What policies follow? What lessons are drawn? Otherwise, studies risk becoming tick–the–box exercises that add little to national planning. Demography is not an academic abstraction; it is the foundation of education budgets, hospital staffing, housing policy, and economic strategy. Transparency and rigor demand that fertility research in Fiji be disaggregated by ethnicity, geography, and occupation, and that findings be linked to actionable proposals. Only then can government and civil society design interventions that are equitable and effective. The Constitution guarantees equality, but equality requires knowledge of difference. Fiji’s demographic transition is real. But unless research is deepened, disaggregated, and applied, the nation will be left with statistics that inform little and policies that deliver less. Fertility research must serve the people, not just the journals. DR SUSHIL K SHARMA Lautoka
Brave and bold
MANY people are supporting a particular opinion column writer, who seems to be an expert on every topic under the sun, to be in Parliament. However, one individual needs to be recognised for his depth on issues pertaining to Fiji and that is Nishant Singh. Over the years, Mr Singh has voiced concerns boldly through this platform and only speaks on real issues unlike some writers here who write to be in the public limelight. There is no doubt that if Nishant were to contest for the general elections, he would bring more votes than any writer here. To Mr Singh, many congratulations on your bravery to write only facts about pivotal topics that benefit all Fijians. Vinaka. DR PRASHNEEL GOUNDAR NSW, Australia
Tourism talanoa or industry megaphone?
The weekly “Tourism Talanoa” column has become less a forum of dialogue and more a corporate megaphone for the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA). Talanoa, in its true cultural meaning, is about open exchange, accountability, and listening to all voices. What we are witnessing instead is a one–way broadcast where the CEO of FHTA dismisses critics, complains about levies, and frames every national policy debate through the narrow lens of hotelier profit margins. This is not talanoa. It is lobbying dressed up as conversation. When the CEO claims tourism is “heavily taxed,” she conflates consumer VAT and departure levies paid by ordinary travellers with corporate tax burdens. Hoteliers do not pay VAT out of their profits; they merely collect it. To parade pass–through taxes as proof of industry sacrifice is intellectual sleight of hand. Meanwhile, ordinary Fijian families pay the same VAT without enjoying tax holidays or infrastructure carve–outs. The VAT exemption given to the poor for basic food items, is also enjoyed by everyone, including the affluent and the business community. Equally troubling is the silence on landowner equity. Indigenous mataqali units continue to receive slim returns while foreign resort conglomerates record tens of millions in turnover. Complex offshore accounting erodes the base for lease calculations, leaving landowners with crumbs. A genuine talanoa would confront this imbalance and debate reforms such as a mandated 5–10 per cent gross turnover royalty for customary landowners. The column also sidesteps the lived reality of workers. Housekeepers and gardeners earn $F5 an hour while guests pay thousands per night. Pointing to vocational training does not erase poverty wages. If resorts can charge global luxury rates, they can pay dignified living wages. That is the conversation missing from “Tourism Talanoa.” Finally, the environmental narrative is pure spin. Boutique solar panels in the Yasawas do nothing to address grid strain on Denarau or the Coral Coast. Mass tourism without strict carrying–capacity limits leads to sewage leaks, reef bleaching, and mangrove destruction. Yet the weekly column frames operators as environmental stewards while ignoring documented damage. If FHTA wishes to engage in true talanoa, it must open its books, disclose procurement data, publish lease payments, and submit to independent scrutiny. Until then, the “Tourism Talanoa” remains a one–sided lobbying platform, not a national dialogue. Fiji deserves better than industry spin masquerading as conversation. DR SUSHIL K SHARMA Lautoka
FNPF pension
I FEEL for you and the many others on the same page Ronnie Chang. Seems like there’s no humans with emotions on the FNPF Boards. What about the Finance Minister? While decisions as such are not taken into considerations based on emotions, this is the pensioners rights we are concerned about. You are obsoletely correct on your path to demand answers for your very own hard-earned money. This indeed is very disappointing. Let’s hope some common-sense kicks in and wise decisions come out. Or is it this, those who have a heart on the boards are scared of their Chair or scared of losing their seats? KIRTI PATEL Lautoka
Who do you think will be crowned the 2026 Hibiscus Festival?
The cost of Deans rugby
NOW that the Vodafone Super Deans rugby competition has come to an end, it may be worthwhile to ask, how much has the entire journey cost? How much have schools, parents, supporters, and sponsors collectively spent to enable their teams to participate in the competition? From travel and accommodation to uniforms, training, and fundraising activities, the costs can be substantial. Now that the dust has settled, one hopes that an estimate of the overall expenditure can be determined. Such information would provide valuable insights for schools and organisers and help with planning and budgeting for future competitions. The Super Deans remains an important platform for developing young rugby talent, but understanding its financial impact would help ensure that participation remains sustainable for all involved. FLOYD ROBINSON Micronesia
Garbage truck discharge
I WISH to raise a concern regarding the liquid being discharged from garbage collection trucks onto public roads. I have observed garbage trucks collecting waste in town areas releasing liquid from their waste-compacting tanks directly onto the road. This liquid comes into contact with decomposing household waste and could potentially contain harmful bacteria, pathogens and other contaminants. Apart from the unpleasant smell, this practice raises concerns about public health, road hygiene and environmental pollution. During rainfall, the contaminated liquid can also be washed into roadside drains and potentially enter waterways. Garbage collection is an essential service, but proper waste management should not stop at collecting the rubbish. Garbage trucks should be properly maintained and equipped to safely contain and dispose of waste liquids rather than allowing them to leak onto public roads. I urge the relevant town councils and waste-management authorities to investigate this matter and inspect the drainage systems of garbage trucks operating in our communities. This is not about blaming the workers who operate these vehicles. It is about ensuring that the system is safe, hygienic and environmentally responsible. Our communities deserve clean roads, clean drains and a waste collection system that protects public health. SHAMAL CHAND Kuku Village, Nausori
10 out of 10 is a failure
The fake accommodation bookings for the UK Prime Minister’s house, 10 Downing St, seems like a fun prank that shows the lack of checking on many sites but it could be weaponised. The real problem is many such sites are open to pranks, scams, and even malicious actions. Too many people are being bullied or scammed because anyone can easily use it ‘anonymously’ and there is little redress. The bullying of young people could be reduced if the poster was known. If you are lucky enough to spend a week at no.10 could you please remember to feed Larry the cat. DENNIS FITZGERALD Landale St, Box Hill, Vic, Australia
Simply the best
I HAVE always maintained that Fiji produces the best lawyers and judges in the world. The lawyers working in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions are no different. They are the most independent, most ethical and politically non-aligned lawyers who are full of integrity compared to people working in similar offices in the world. May I add that they have the best written and spoken English, are the most credible and the least prejudiced role models. I am not saying this – just ask them and it is clear for all to see. Since the appointments of new people after the last election, the standards in the ODPP have gone to another level. Keep up the good work. The rest of the world should learn from Fiji. Like I always say, the people of Fiji are truly blessed. JAN NISSAR Sydney,
NSW FNPF chases $8m
WELL, I never!! Isn’t truly amazing Fiji’s biggest financial institution, and the South Pacific’s, is today chasing a mere $8million (FT Friday, September 04, 2026). The Fund must be desperate. “Do unto others what you have them do unto you. Thou shalt not steal.” – are pieces of scriptures’ teaching. Better leaders do not hurt or steal pensions. It is a cardinal sin to hurt the elderly. Let us all take a moment in time. Let us go back to the year 2011. The then Bainimarama-Saiyed Khaiyum FijiFirst government, cruelly betrayed about 6000 senior pensioners in 2012. 14 painful years have passed us by. We saw some 600 pass away. The then heartlessly inhumane men at the helm, colluded with FNPF, under grossly falsely unproven claims forcefully reduce our hard earned just pensions. Some of us took lumpsum out of fear; and increased losses. The betrayed senior pensions are still owed in excess of fifty times the eight the FNPF is seeking. To refresh all minds, right-thinking citizens, FNPF today boasts portfolio of more than $12billion plus $2billion cash in bank. FNPF has all the financial means needed to right the gross wholesale wrongs of the yesteryears. Our Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has the executive authority in our sovereign State, the “golden key,” and the empathy to finally deliver restorative justice and restitution. We are counting on you, sir. Time is of the essence. Time is a huge luxury for about 1400 betrayed senior survivors, their spouses, loved ones and families. Please make Christmas 2026 come much earlier. We make this fervent plea in earnest anticipation. Thank you well in advance, sir. Can the 2026 Hibiscus contestants please lend us their powerful voices? We are desperately in need of elusive relief. RONNIE CHANG Matintar, Nadi
Justice for Vimal: A call to reform Fiji’s criminal laws
THE nation owes deep respect and gratitude to Sachida Nand and his family of Kulukulu, Sigatoka, who, despite the unbearable grief of losing their son Vimal Vikash Nand, have found the strength to travel to Parliament and speak for all victims of violent crime. Their persistence, stamina and patience in taking their submission to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights is an act of courage that deserves our full support. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family for this senseless loss of life, and we thank them for ensuring that their son’s death is not in vain. For those who may not have read the media report of September 3, Mr Nand’s proposals are clear, detailed and constructive. They deserve to be heard and acted upon. He has called for: A compensation system or fund to provide financial assistance to families of victims of serious crimes. A review of bail laws, ensuring bail is not automatic in serious violent cases, with courts weighing risks such as flight, intimidation of victims, re–offending and community danger. Stronger bail conditions, including regular police reporting, surrender of travel documents, restrictions on movement and bans on contacting victims or witnesses. Electronic monitoring, such as ankle bracelets, for accused persons on bail who pose risks. Sentencing reform, with severe and proportionate penalties for violent offences, and substantial minimum non–parole periods where appropriate. Tougher laws for repeat offenders, so the system deters persistent violent behaviour. A comprehensive review of criminal justice laws, involving judges, prosecutors, defence lawyers, police, corrections, victim–support groups, criminologists and the wider community, to identify legislative gaps and inconsistencies. Importantly, Mr Nand emphasised that reforms must still respect the rights of accused persons — presumption of innocence, due process, judicial independence and fair trial. His vision is not about vengeance, but about building a criminal justice system that is credible, consistent, transparent and effective in protecting society. This family’s voice represents countless others who suffer silently. Their proposals are not radical; they are reasonable safeguards to restore public trust and protect victims. Parliament must listen carefully and act decisively. Let us honour Vimal’s memory by ensuring that his father’s call for justice is not ignored. The Nand family has carried their grief into the halls of power with dignity. Now it is up to our leaders to respond with courage and reform. DR SUSHIL K SHARMA Lautoka
Right to choose
WITH violent crime against public service vehicle (PSV) drivers seemingly on the rise, particularly taxidrivers, operating a taxi has become an increasingly dangerous occupation. Aggravated robberies, “grab and run” incidents, passengers refusing to pay their fares, (commonly referred to as “step taxis”) and, most tragically, the murder of drivers have become deeply concerning. Taxidrivers are now being forced to develop their own strategies to protect themselves, with many understandably becoming increasingly cautious about the passengers they pick up. When a driver is alone in a vehicle with a complete stranger, often late at night and in isolated areas, that driver should have every right to exercise reasonable discretion about whether they feel safe accepting a particular passenger.I believe PSV drivers should be given greater liberty to refuse a passenger where they have genuine safety concerns. No driver should be compelled to put their personal safety, livelihood or life at risk simply because they are operating a public service. The murder of a taxidriver in Tavua not long ago, and the subsequent imprisonment of the thugs responsible, should serve as a grim reminder that these concerns are not hypothetical. For taxidrivers, the danger can be very real, and sometimes fatal. Although the majority of the perpetrators sadly belong to a specific ethnicity, this is not about discriminating against passengers. It is about recognising that drivers are human beings who have a legitimate right to protect themselves. If we expect PSV drivers to provide an essential service to the public, then surely their safety must also be given serious consideration. Let the drivers use their own judgement. Their lives should matter too. NISHANT SINGH Lautoka
What about the locals FIJI Airways is turning 75, and what a celebration!
Passengers in New Zealand can apparently celebrate with fares to Fiji from $275 one way. Meanwhile, Fijians looking at travelling in the opposite direction might be wondering whether the birthday cake has already run out. It begs the question — are we celebrating Fiji Airways 75th anniversary, or are we celebrating the arrival of visitors? Don’t get me wrong, bringing tourists to Fiji is important. But so are Fijians who need to travel to New Zealand to see family, attend weddings and funerals, study, work or simply take a break. Our national airline says it connects Fiji to the world. Perhaps for its 75th birthday, it could prove that the connection works both ways. So, Fiji Airways, enjoy your birthday. But don’t forget the people at home. I will happily accept a $275 birthday present too. After all, shouldn’t our national airline’s birthday benefit the nation that helped build it? I reckon while the birthday cake is out and the champagne is flowing, perhaps save a slice for your local customers too. SHAMAL CHAND Kuku Village, Nausori.
Climate activism
WE read in blog site Grubsheet Feejee that Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu “has a history of climate activism” (GS 2/9). When did Mr Seruiratu start his climate activism? When did he first say anything publicly about climate change? I know people dedicated to climate activism have been doing that for decades. That is having a history of climate activism. RAJEND NAIDU Sydney, NSW, Australia
Neglected Nausori road hazard
I WISH to bring to the attention of authorities an ongoing safety concern involving a drain inspection panel cover on Dunston St, Nausori. The cover does not appear to be properly secured or fitted. Even when a vehicle passes over it, the panel can shift out of position, creating a potential hazard for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists using the road. This issue has reportedly remained unattended for some time. What is particularly concerning is that the road is regularly used by personnel from the Nausori Town Council and the Fiji Roads Authority. It is therefore surprising that such an obvious road safety hazard has seemingly not been addressed. A loose or displaced inspection cover may appear to be a minor infrastructure issue, but it can have serious consequences if a pedestrian steps into the opening or a vehicle encounters the displaced cover unexpectedly. I respectfully urge the Nausori Town Council, Fiji Roads Authority, or whichever authority has responsibility for this infrastructure, to inspect the site and arrange for the cover to be properly secured or repaired. Public infrastructure should not only be provided, but also adequately maintained. Authorities should not have to wait for an accident or injury before addressing a hazard that has already been brought to their attention. I hope the relevant authority will take this matter seriously and act promptly in the interest of public safety. SHAMAL CHAND Kuku Village, Nausori
PM’s priorities, responsibilities
IT is absolutely outrageous that Fiji’s PM Sitiveni Rabuka has decided against participating in the most important regional meeting, the Pacific Forum Island Leaders’ Meeting in Palau. This comes on the heals of him justifying the huge presidential delegation to UNGA in New York, to read the country statement and which is likely to cost the taxpayers close to $1million! Instead, he has bequeathed this to two relatively new, inexperienced and novice ministers, not even the Deputy Prime Ministers or the Assistant Minister Lenora Qereqeretabua. This could have also been an opportunity to include Leader of Opposition Inia Seruiratu, the alternative PM, who is also the Pacific ‘Oceans champion’ in the lead up to pre-COP and COP. The logic and the no brainer to attend and walk in solidarity with the Pacific nations cannot be over emphasised. His ‘Ocean of Peace’ initiative is likely to be discussed as well as other important regional issues like climate change, missile testing, regional architecture and of course the ongoing influence of major external players like Australia, US, China, Japan etc. One can only speculate on the real reasons. Does he not want to be part of the China-Taiwan tussle in Palau? Does he not want to tell the region what is in the Fiji-Australia agreement which has yet to be debated in Parliament? Does he not want to face the Pacific civil society groups over issues like deep sea mining, decolonisation and nuclearisation? Does he not want to confront the Japanese on the nuclear discharge and Australia/US over AUKUS? As the world awaits the pre-COP meeting to be held in Nadi, this would have been a great opportunity for Fiji to invite the regional and international leaders. By the perception of a ‘no care’ attitude to the region, Fiji, by far the most developed country in the region, is likely to be labelled as indifferent and arrogant. ALTAUF CHAND Minto, NSW, Australia
Delayed police clearance
I WRITE to raise a matter of public concern regarding the prolonged delays in the processing and transmission of Police Clearance certificates, particularly those marked and paid for as urgent. A recent case involved a client who was advised by officers at the Nadi Police Station that an urgent Police Clearance would be completed within three to four days. The required fee for urgent processing was paid in full. Despite this assurance, the clearance was not transmitted to Immigration within the promised timeframe, resulting in unnecessary stress, repeated follow–ups, and delays to the client’s immigration process. What is most concerning is the lack of co-ordination between the relevant units. Police advised that the clearance had been dispatched, yet Immigration later confirmed that they had not received the document. This inconsistency highlights a breakdown in communication and workflow that affects members of the public who rely on timely processing for legal and administrative matters. Police Clearance certificates are essential for employment, visas, and other statutory requirements. When urgent fees are paid and specific timelines are provided, the public is entitled to expect that these commitments will be honoured. Delays of this nature not only inconvenience individuals, but also undermine confidence in essential public services. I respectfully urge the responsible authorities to review their internal processes, strengthen communication between units, and ensure that urgent services are delivered within the timeframe promised to the public. ECELINA RATU Nadi
Role of GCC
BACK in 2023, I asked in this esteemed column a reasonable and logical question that I believed was in the minds of commonalty like me. “How will the reinstatement of the Great Council of Chiefs benefit the common people?” Three years later I am again asking, “How much has been spent on the GCC and how has their reinstatement benefited the common iTaukei people?” Dou bau yaga tu mada! Sobo! WISE MUAVONO Hedstrom Pl , Balawa, Lautoka
Best of the best
NOW that the Springboks have ended Dave Rennie’s 100 per cent unbeaten record and levelled the series against the All Blacks, the final Test match means that both sides will be pursuing nothing less than victory. This weekend’s encounter promises to be a bone-crunching affair. The Springboks bring immense physicality through their front row and loose forwards, an area in which the All Blacks have at times struggled to match. At the same time, the All Blacks’ set-piece execution and well-planned attacking tactics have often caught out the Springboks’ rushed defence off guard, creating opportunities for some spectacular tries. The best of the best will clash once again this weekend, and as always, neither side will want to finish the series on a losing note. Rugby fans can expect a fiercely contested match worthy of one of the sport’s greatest rivalries. I am banking on the Springboks to stand tall when the referee signals the end of match. FLOYD ROBINSON Micronesia
