New presidential car
Many thanks to the People’s Republic of China for once again indulging our political elite, this time with a brand-new executive sedan (Hongqi H9) for the Office of the President. Like a child unexpectedly handed a bag of lollies, one can only imagine our good President grinning ear to ear at his new taxpayer-free, gift-wrapped luxury ride. This, of course, is not China’s first act of “generosity”. We were previously treated to a fleet of around 20 Hongqi vehicles for the G77 meeting a few years ago, a grand show of diplomacy, photo-ops and ribbon-cutting ceremonies included — cake and kalavata included. Yet today, those cars have mysteriously disappeared from public view. Not a single one to be seen on our roads. So where did they go? Are they still road worthy, quietly rotting behind some guarded government compound? Or were they so well “maintained” that they’ve already been reduced to spare parts or scrap metal? The real question is not how generous China has been, but how embarrassingly poor our own custodianship of public assets appears to be. Judging by past experience, this shiny new presidential toy is likely just another short-lived spectacle, destined to vanish, without explanation, just like the rest. By the way, is it bulletproof? Nishant Singh Lautoka
New car
The President has received a new presidential car on behalf of the people of Fiji donated by the people of China. The President has done excellent work in recent times in strengthening ties and building friendships with various countries, not just China. So, I believe, this is a recognition of his excellent work. Other Pacific Island countries may ask the Chinese “where is our car”? – but what did they do to deserve this? The Prime Minister must feel left out a bit. To tell the truth, I am feeling a bit envious myself, but I am sure I am not alone. Jan Nissar Sydney, NSW, Australia
$12m game
The taxpayers saw $12million of their hard-earned money go down the pool without getting any benefits. The swimming pool lies idle. The Nayala FNU campus at Labasa has also eaten up $12m without ever becoming operational. Now it is estimated that it will cost another $3m to demolish it. And now the DPP has been reported as saying that there is insufficient evidence to press charges against the 12 individuals implicated in the COI report but the more disturbing part is the report that the individuals are likely to sue the State for $1m each for false accusations. There likely goes another $12m. The burning question is who is responsible for all the bungling and why hasn’t anyone donned any orange uniforms so far? Un-ending circus I suppose. Ajai Kumar Nadi
Traffic congestion
The 2026 school year has started with accompanying ‘traffic issues’, at another level. The number of vehicle imports, I am certain, increased annually, which produced an additional ‘volume of traffic’, on our roads. And that which is so affected, the 2km radius of our urban centres. All previous governments have been ‘duplicating’ solutions, in my view. The Suva-Nausori corridor was upgraded with additional traffic lanes, extra pedestrian zebra crossing lights and within two years, traffic congestion ‘spilled over’. Was it poor planning? Or the complacency of coping with the status quo? Is the minister’s declaration of reducing the used cars importation genuine? Or just lip service? Are railway line investments expensive? If they are, then the Fijian people’s wellbeing, in my opinion, has been the government’s expense. For over 30 years, all solutions provided were “Band-Aid” solutions. What a state failure! Samu Silatolu Nakasi
Support the 7s team!
Now that the 7s team has been named and the boys are raring to fly our flag proudly in Singapore, I urge the rugby 7s loving public to support Osea Kolinisau and the boys. The team looks fit and has done the basics well, so the results should fold in a positive way. Brother Dinesh Kumar, I’m having positive vibes and I urge you to have the same vibes. Trust me, Sunday will be special for us Fijians! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Cadet training
Cadet training does not reinforce militarisation. It helps the students develop self-discipline, respect, teamwork and a sense of responsibility. Get it right Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre manager legal services Miliana Tarai. Kemudou! Wise Muavono Balawa, Lautoka
Responsible nation index
India launched its ‘Responsible Nation Index 2026’ a few days ago measuring Ethical Governance, Social Welfare and Global Accountability. The following are the ratings of a few nations out of 154: Singapore-1st, Switzerland-2nd, India-16th, Fiji-53rd, USA-66th, China-68th. Looks like we’ve got to do a lot of work in these areas. Google for complete list. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Demolition cost
I think the demolition cost of $3million for a very small FNU unfinished building is an over estimation and warrants an urgent investigation. Sukha Singh Labasa
No water
Hi everyone. We got water late the other night, but it stopped at 0700 hours yesterday morning. Most workers did a half a day and were sent home. Funny, I was filling a two- litre container when the tap stopped and I will let everyone know tomorrow about our water mystery and misery! On behalf of the Airport Rd Savusavu no-water frustrated residents, have a no water nice day folks! Luke Kulanikoro Savusavu
Happiest people
Do you think that many parents were part of the happiest group on the first day of school? Mohammed Imraz Janif Natabua, Lautoka
Food for thought
As a five-year-old, I learnt swimming because my entire life was dependent on the river — drinking, cooking, washing, bathing, catching fish and prawns, playing etc. This was my little world. As I grew up, I learnt about other communities, people, countries and the entire world. Today, sitting in my living room, I am connected with the world via TV, newspaper, internet, phones etc. This has informed me, enriched me and gave me a broader understanding of events that affect all of us. I never wished to live a life of a ‘toad in a well’. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Kava thirst
A front-page article highlights that kava demand has surpassed supply, making a price increase inevitable. (FT 27/01). Consumption far exceeds planting, worsened by exports overseas. Perhaps it is time grog lovers planted a few kava plants at home, alongside mirchi and baigani for future survival. DINESH KUMAR Ba
Deals and streetlights
A father’s lament!
With a heavy heart, imagining what Joseph Rodan Senior went through as he laid his son Joseph Rodan Junior to his resting place, I read through the piece titled ‘A father’s deep lament’. A painful and solemn farewell as Rodan Senior bid his son goodbye. While I agree with Rodan Senior that no father is supposed to bury their own children, I remind him and the likes that God has his own plans. I quote Rodan Senior (ST: 25/01), “I’m very old and it’s tough — it’s hard. It’s an experience that I don’t want any father to go through.” To Rodan Senior, I know that words aren’t enough to provide you the comfort from the pain that you are going through, having lost a son who had contributed so much to athletics as an athlete and administrator. Be strong, sir! Time will heal your wounds. Please accept my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy. Be proud of the legacy that Junior (aka JJ) has left behind! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Mother of all deals
President of European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen at the Davos World Economic Forum had announced that she would be signing the ‘mother of all deals’ while in India for the Republic Day celebrations. On Monday, January 26, Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, President of European Council witnessed the Indian military parade and colourful cultural presentations by India’s different states. Both appeared amazed seeing India’s diverse ethnicity perform traditional dance choreographed on 2500 artists from across India on the national song “vande mataram” — “I bow to thee, mother”. If the FTA and defence deal is signed, the Western imposed ‘rules-based order’ will be reset with India and the Global South rising economically. Let us hope that organisations like IMF and World Bank (West created) will change their policies and not keep Global South in perpetual debt. PM Modi had told Indians at a rally, “acche din aayenge” — good days will come. We should also look forward to our tourism industry seeing good days and good growth. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Streetlight maintenance
As a resident and regular driver, I would like to bring to your attention the issue of streetlight functionality along the Airport/Nadi Bridge stretch. From frequent observation, it is evident that many streetlights on this route are not operating effectively due to a lack of proper care and maintenance. Several lights have been out of order for an extended period, while others provide insufficient illumination or are completely obstructed by overgrown tree branches. The segment between Nadi Plaza and McDonald’s is particularly troublesome, with numerous trees requiring urgent pruning to restore the effectiveness of the lights. Unless these branches are cleared, the streetlights remain ineffective. This persistent issue poses serious safety risks for all road users, including tourists. The installation of streetlights along this key route was justifiable, as it serves as a primary pathway for transporting tourists to and from the airport daily. Proper upkeep of this infrastructure is essential, not only for road safety but also for supporting the tourism industry. Poorly maintained streetlights on dimly lit roads increase the likelihood of accidents involving both motorists and pedestrians, especially during night time hours. I urge the relevant authorities, particularly FRA, to prioritise action on this matter by repairing and replacing faulty streetlights and trimming obstructive tree branches. Establishing a system for regular maintenance checks would also help prevent such issues from recurring. Please address this concern promptly to ensure the continued safety and security of everyone using this route. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Suresh Chand Nadi
