A mum’s determination!
Mother-of-six and Nabua Secondary School Matua student Sereana Korovulavula, better known to her classmates as Sherry, delivered one of the best motivations heading to the academic year (FT: 20/01). “I’m doing this for my children. Sometimes when they want something, we can’t provide. That really pushes me to want better for them. You are the one who drives your destiny. If you set your mind to it, you can overcome anything.”
Sereana, through her hard work, commitment, passion, attendance and determination to the program, passed the Year 13 external exam with flying colours and set the benchmark for other mothers who want to pursue higher studies despite being a parent of six children. Completing the Matua program not only strengthened Sereana academically but also deepened her bond with her children. Her story will motivate school leavers to grab the opportunity provided through the program. To Alifereti Sakiasi and The Fiji Times, thank you for the stories from the Matua program. Enrolment is going on as students are taking advantage of the Matua program! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Nadawa, Nasinu
Pulse of the nation
If The Fiji Times‘ editor-in-chief said letter to the editor writers “are playing their part in holding power to account” then I believe that’s not true of all the writers. I believe some LTE writers are sychophantic supporters of those in power. That was the case when the authoritarian FijiFirst was in power and it remains the case with the Rabuka gang in power. But yes, there are writers who have always demanded democratic accountability and transparency from those in power through public scrutiny of their conduct. And The Fiji Times is applauded for providing them the democratic space to do so. Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
First things first
The Honourable Minister for Tourism’s scoping visit in the Lau Group is an eye opener, particularly for the yavusa Vusawaitui in Daliconi, Vanuabalavu, traditional owners of the renowned Qilaqila bay of isles — a natural harbour and marine reserve famous for its beautiful, protected turquoise waters. Not long ago, an individual with close ties to Daliconi had proposed to fund the establishment of mooring balls on Qilaqila. However, the proposal did not receive unanimous support. The account of villagers suggests a lot of mistrust and fear of being left out. The minister’s visit is timely in allaying fears and promoting the various forms of initiatives available to assist traditional resource owners, and saying, “first things first”, i.e, get your yavusa registered as a legal business entity, which then leases the subject area/s before tapping into these initiatives and opportunities. For Vusawaitui, appointing people who are doers, self-reliant, mature and wise as trustees is crucial if Qilaqila is to grow from a natural, safe anchorage into a world class, full-service marina. Samu Railoa Vanuabalavu, Lau
New party
The People First Party is the most recent political entity to be registered under the Register of Political Parties. It is composed of former members of parliament from the de-registered FijiFirst party, left politically orphaned after the 2022 General Election and the quiet disappearance of their two “mentors”. This naturally raises the question, which “people” precisely, will this party put first? Any defined constituency, or merely people in general? Whether it can even surpass the 5 per cent threshold remains to be seen. In politics, after all, reinvention is admirable, but the 200,000-plus FijiFirst voters have not yet forgotten the agony of being ditched suddenly when the famous two and other MPs quit the FijiFirst party as soon as they found themselves on the opposition side of Parliament. DINESH KUMAR Ba
Leave Education Ministry alone
Let the Education Ministry be independent and ruled by its line ministry. Students will be in chaos when there is mud slinging and wrangling at the top because it will trickle down to the lowest level who will definitely be the victims of supremacy. As they say here up North, “Dana”! Education is too bright for Fiji and should not be politicised. Please be informed, of this; “The only thing you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library” — Albeit Einstein. Jioji O Toronibau Navetau, Tunuloa
Coalition government
I recall the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, making a statement earlier that it was not easy to run a coalition government. I agreed then and still agree now. I also understand his predicament. Mr Rabuka initially had to rely heavily on the cooperation of coalition partners, SODELPA and NFP. He couldn’t afford to rock the boat. But now that he has got nine former FijiFirst parliamentarians on his side, he can afford to trod on some big toes. The Prime Minister’s decision to transfer management oversight of the Fiji National University (FNU) from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics is a bold step indeed. Coalition partners often have to compromise on their core policies to maintain the partnership, leading to “watered-down” policies that are not doing any good to the people. The demands of coalition partners also severely affect service delivery. Mr Rabuka’s hands are tied as far as the appointment of the Education Minister is concerned. He has to appoint a Sodelpa man or woman, as per the agreement. People’s Alliance Party and Mr Rabuka as their leader, has to dance to the tune of small parties such as NFP and SODELPA, who have become “kingmakers”, wielding disproportionate power, which undermines the direct will of the voters who did not necessarily vote for such alliances. I personally believe that smaller parties who “piggyback” on the big party are more of a stumbling block rather than being a leverage for the better. Therefore, I earnestly believe that come the next election, one party majority government would be better. Arun Prasad Dilkusha, Nausori
US immigrants policy
If the US listed Fiji as one of the 75 countries that will be affected by their new immigrants policy, I don’t see any reason why we have to blame our PM for his thoughts and comments. Well, just like that lady whose clip had gone viral on social media, everyone is entitled to their opinion. How about taking up their grievances to the right place and person rather than blaming our honourable PM? Maybe Trump will show her the right plane to board and the reason. Oh, and this is just my opinion lady. I am entitled to it just like everyone. Pita Soroaqali Tavua
Reaction time
For me, the reaction time of the Fiji 7s team is too slow. In 7s, players’ reaction time must be within seconds, otherwise forget about playing 7s. Another aspect of the game as we understand from the North is, “where the ball is, you must be is”. Try it mada, it might just work! Luke Kulanikoro Savusavu
Increasing drug raids
The Vatia drug raid has raised some eyebrows. I believe the drug operations have reached a dangerous level. The more the efforts are being made to eradicate this disease, the more it’s rearing its ugly head. Police are on their toes with drug operations and we appreciate that but this scenario keeps popping up at different levels making us realise the dangers and the catastrophic outcome of it. Where is the loophole? Kirti Patel Lautoka
Race identification
Your front page news under the heading “Midnight chase” describes the two suspects as one being an iTaukei man and the other an Indo-Fijian. (FT 20/1) I wonder whether it was necessary to identify them by race as this is not the norm with your newspaper. BHARAT MORRIS Vatuwaqa, Suva
Living in denial
I believe it is sometimes a normal reaction when someone has been used, to be in denial once they realise that they have been used. I do not believe that is the case with the NFP and its leader. I believe if the leader hangs on long enough things may change just like the people of Fiji who have been living in hope for a very long time. Jan Nissar Sydney, Australia
Traffic and abuse
Congestion on Fiji roads
I am writing to share some thoughts on the increasing congestion on Fiji’s roads and to suggest ways we might ease the pressure while encouraging more sustainable transport options. It’s clear that cars are steadily clogging our roads, making daily commutes longer and more stressful. While addressing congestion is no simple task, there are several practical measures that could make a meaningful difference. Firstly, improving and maintaining our road infrastructure is essential. Smooth, well-managed roads reduce traffic jams and accidents and they create the foundation for safer and more efficient travel. Alongside this, the creation of dedicated bike lanes or cycling paths would provide commuters with a healthier, eco-friendly alternative to cars. Cycling not only reduces traffic but also promotes fitness and environmental sustainability. Another option worth exploring is rickshaw or tuk-tuk lanes. These smaller, nimble vehicles can transport people efficiently and with less space than cars, helping to alleviate congestion in busy areas. Motor scooters are another alternative, though the current state of roads may make them less practical for widespread use; improving road conditions would make this option safer and more attractive. Beyond these measures, Fiji might also consider solutions such as carpool incentives, improved public transport, or car-free Fridays, which have proven effective in other countries facing similar challenges. By combining infrastructure improvements with practical commuter options, we can reduce congestion while encouraging sustainable and safer travel habits. Ultimately, the goal is not just to move cars faster but to create a transport system that works better for everyone — for commuters, families and visitors alike. With careful planning and a willingness to embrace innovative solutions, Fiji can look forward to smoother, safer and more enjoyable journeys for all. Colin Deoki Australia
Child sexual abuse
Child sexual abuse cases consistently dominate the crime statistics released by the Office of the DPP every month. The situation is alarming, as the numbers show a troubling increase rather than a decline. The nature of these crimes, often described in horrifying detail, can feel unimaginable and deeply disturbing. It’s hard to fathom why this problem continues to escalate. What is particularly striking is that most cases involve perpetrators known to the child — trusted individuals, including close family members. This underscores the urgent need for improved strategies and tougher penalties to combat the rising tide of child sexual abuse. One proactive step would be teaching children the importance of sticking together in pairs or groups when they’re in public spaces. Such habits can foster mutual protection and minimise the risk of harm or attempted abductions. However, the foundation lies in the care and time parents and guardians dedicate to raising and nurturing their children. Keeping your child protected and out of harm’s way requires full-time supervision. Any lapse or deviation from your parental duties can be regretting. Of course, addressing this pressing issue requires a unified effort from all concerned parties. And the time to act is now, not later. I sincerely hope that the matter receives the attention it deserves. Suresh Chand Nadi
