Rugby crazy nation
THE Fiji Water Flying Fijians will face Wales at Cardiff City Stadium in the opening round of the Nations Championship early Sunday morning (FT). Already, thousands of passionate Fijians will be restless with excitement, waiting to cheer on our mighty warriors. From the highlands, families will carry their television sets and bedding up the mountain just to catch a glimpse because who would dare blink when our men take the field? So get your panadol ready, and maybe a dose of herbal medicine too, in case the Hardy Coconut drives you wild with joy. And Fiji, don’t forget – win or lose – go to church, beat the lali, and sing those hymns so loud that Wales might just hear them across the sea. Wishing all the best to coach Seruvakula and the Flying Fijians – vinaka boys, play with heart and make us proud! LAVENIA MALAMA Suva
Belief, physicality and fearless
ILIVASI Tabua is no stranger to Fiji rugby. The ‘Human Skewer’, as he is commonly known in rugby circles, guided the Flying Fijians to a RWC quarter-final clash against the champions, the Springboks. Although Fiji lost 20-37, we won hearts for a fearless approach and for holding the Springboks to a 20-all draw before they scored 17 points to race away to victory. Who can forget the two scintillating tries that were scored by our gasmen, Vilimoni Delasau and Sireli Bobo. Prior to that battle, Fiji had created history in Nantes, outmuscling Wales 38-34 to send the Dragons packing out of the RWC 15s. That morning Akapusi Qera, Vilimoni Delasau, Kele Leawere and Graham Dewes’ decisive try in the 76th minute sent Fijians into frenzy as we beat the Dragons for the first time. Tabua used three crucial terms – belief, physicality and fearless rugby – as the boys prepare to face Wales. He spoke highly of the current squad, citing athleticism and the willingness to play positively against the Dragons. In 2024 in Cardiff, Fiji beat Wales 24-19 in an exciting and intense battle for the first time on their turf. No nonsense coach Senirusi Seruvakula has named a tough team to take on Wales. We have talent loaded in the team both in the forwards and the backs. The Dragons are on a building stage, and we have the best chance to beat them back-to-back on their home turf. The Nations Championship kicks off tonight as the All Blacks take on the Les Bleus. What a mouthwatering battle it would be! Wishing the Flying Fijians and the All Blacks all the best for the battle! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Balgovind Rd, Nadawa, Nasinu
Greatest woman tennis player
WE have two tennis players, one perhaps the greatest ever woman player and one so nervous she forgot to warm up, which is the better player? Maya Joint has managed to beat Serena fairly easily in the match and presented herself well at the aftermatch conference whereas Serena did a dummy spit and skipped the conference. Being a champion is a privilege and a responsibility and sometimes you need to know when to back out honourably. DENNIS FITZGERALD Victoria, Australia
A measure of wisdom
AFTER quite some time, the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces has finally uttered something sensible, something that reflects a measure of wisdom. His recommendation to remove the constitutional immunity provisions is a welcome departure from the usual rhetoric. Perhaps Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai has finally come to appreciate the devastating consequences of coups involving the military, the destruction of democratically elected governments, the erosion of the rule of law, and the enormous economic and social cost inflicted on Fiji. If he is genuinely committed to accountability, then the army commander should also have the courage to advocate for those who aided and abetted these treasonous acts to face justice should immunity be removed. That would include several key architects and plotters of past coups, some of whom now occupy influential positions within government. Secondly, there is another matter that remains unresolved. During the reconciliation process last year involving lots of food and prayers, coup perpetrators and the Methodist Church sought forgiveness from each other for their respective roles in Fiji’s political upheavals. Yet the Indo-Fijian community, the principal victims and targets of intimidation, violence and displacement, was conspicuously absent from the matanigasau process. At the time, the Commander assured the nation that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces would offer an apology to the Indo-Fijian community. However, that promise remains unfulfilled for reasons unknown. Such an apology is long overdue. It is owed not only to the Indo-Fijian community, the vulagi who have made immense contributions to building Fiji’s economy and nationhood, but to every citizen whose lives were shattered by repeated military interventions in politics. Genuine reconciliation cannot be achieved through selective remembrance. And certainly no amount of praying and fasting can heal the deep wounds of those dark days. NISHANT SINGH Lautoka
Huge cost to consumers
FINANCE permanent secretary says the dramatic increase in fuel prices had placed Fiji Airways under immense financial pressure (FT 02/07). FHTA CEO says the tourism industry was not consulted over the 5 per cent Tourism Tax. Recently, my wife and I booked flights for December – to avoid paying more later – from Nadi to Adelaide costing $F1510.64 return per person. From Adelaide to Delhi (Malaysian Airline) cost $F2569.46 return per person. I also paid $F25.00 per person ticketing fee since I bought tickets at Fiji Airways Nadi Airport, not online. The Adelaide to Delhi return flight is through Kuala Lumpur and is priced reasonably than Nadi to Adelaide return. It is a well known fact that Fiji Airways management and staff enjoy very good salaries and allowances. Fiji’s taxpayers have been providing budgetary support to Fiji Airways since its inception (Air Pacific). Government should keep this into consideration. RAKESH CHAND SHARMA Nadi
Sugar standoff
ARE we witnessing a Mexican standoff between the sugarcane farmers and the FSC/Government. Sobo! WISE MUAVONO Headstrom Pl, Balawa, Lautoka
Belgium marches on
IN a pulsating match in the FIFA 26 round of 32, Belgium showed courage and conviction to out-muscle Senegal, who were leading 2-0 and just five minutes away in normal time, to marching into the last 16. The old horse, Lukaku, pulled one back and within two minutes Belgium were 2-all. They turned the game upside down. What a remarkable comeback. In the extra time, Belgium kept pushing and won a penalty, with few minutes remaining. The stunning spot kick saw Belgium, who were on the brink of disaster, squeeze through to the last 16. Man, it’s so true, “it ain’t over ’till it’s over.” ARUN PRASAD Dilkusha, Nausori
On revolution
WE hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal – Thomas Jefferson, Declaration of Independence, 1776. All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others – George Orwell, Animal Farm, 1945. CHRISTOPHER GRIFFIN Perth Australia
Election year
AS we head towards general election, a lot of things or issues have been happening positively which is favourable to the ears of the public. While some issues are negative in whatever sense one views it, the opinion of the people will always differ. Timing the roll towards the general election will always encounter road humps and potholes. Let’s be democratically positive so that we can roll over together overcoming these challenges as we head towards general elections. JUKI FONG CHEW Nadawa, Nasinu
Freedom to speak
THE LTE (03/07) titled “Nuclear Iran” should know that constitutions of democratic nations give freedom of expression/speech. The constitution does not differentiate between intelligence and stupidity of opinions or views. Therefore, we can safely say that the constitution gives us freedom to be stupid. The opinion expressed in the LTE on Trump and Netanyahu depends on how readers perceive the situation of both these political leaders. RAKESH CHAND SHARMA Nadi
FNPF pensioners
FIJI, today and, as in recent decade or so, is not a perfect country. We are not “the way the world should be”. We are in the grips of many challenging issues – much inherited from the previous administration. We were denied democracy by the then dictators. Today, we are allowed to voice our grievances – thanks to the Coalition Government. Apart from so many demands of a growing nation, lies certain uncertainties. A bloated debt level, the perils of so many political parties – each sowing its own brand of division, scoring brownie points, the failing sugar industry, an extremely bloated civil service (all of 42,000); a struggling healthcare system; our worrying drug crisis; water and sewage woes; poor garbage disposal especially along river bank and informal settlements; St Giles bursting at its seams with many younger patients; 151 FNPF millionaires compared with the surviving 1400 senior and betrayed pensioners from 2012. We, betrayed senior pensioners are a dying breed. Apart from the cruelty and heartlessness of this betrayal of seniors who helped build Fiji too, and the uncaring FNPF of today, the then “Parliament” saw it fitting to pay the then PM per diem of $3000 per day and increase his salary to a whopping $328,000.00. Financial records available will confirm his salary level in 2007 of about $89,000 to a “whopper” of about $328,000 in 2020. This happened when irrevocable pensions were forcibly reduced by an illegal third party. Pensioners’ contracts and agreements with FNPF are supposedly “legal and binding” until our last breath. We are painfully “tested” today. Justice is so elusive. Many pensioners, like me took initial pensions. By forced illegal reductions in 2011, in fear we opted lumpsum immediately after. We have suffered since (without one pension dollar). This is a clear exhibition of Fiji’s cruelty to the elderly — especially those in the lower income brackets. Our esteemed psychologists and renowned human resource executives are powerless to lend us their learned voices. This is cruelty at its best towards some elderly members in society. Out of the initial 6000 of us, 4600 have since passed on and about 1400 survive today. The interpretation of the law by the then unelected FijiFirst government is a definite exhibition of an uncaring helpless system continuing to deal us a perennial cruel blow in our fading twilight years. This is very real. There is no respite in sight. The law cannot assist us in any way. The rest is all history. Our memories are not so short. FNPF today boasts some 200 to 500 employees, executives, chairman, board members and legal team. Are they handsomely remunerated? At whose betrayal? PM Rabuka still holds that proverbial golden key to unlock that cruelty; and right yesterday’s wrong. The betrayed senior pensioners do not have the ways and financial resources to seek legal redress. Justice is not freely available. We are not in the position to afford rich counsels. Time is not on our side as we are now well into our 70s, 80s and 90s. The fund will prefer this route and run the clock out on us. Am I wrong? RONNIE CHANG Martintar, Nadi
Independence and freedom rings
THIS week the United States of America commemorated the remarkable 250th anniversary of its independence from Great Britain, first declared on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia. This historic act was not merely a statement of separation, but a bold proclamation of human dignity, equality and the right of people to govern themselves. Across all 50 states, the star-spangled banner will wave proudly, while Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia host the nation’s largest fireworks display. From New York to Las Vegas, San Francisco’s Golden Gate; waterfronts will offer breathtaking views as thousands gather to celebrate. Tables will be spread with mouth–watering food and wine flowing freely, as Americans far and wide honour this milestone in true festive style. This 250th anniversary is a reminder that independence is not a static achievement, but a living responsibility. Here in Fiji, we also extend our gratitude. The US Embassy has supported countless programs that have enriched lives across the Pacific — from the Fulbright Foreign Students Program, the US South Pacific Scholarship Program, and the Study of the US Institutes, to the Community Solutions Program, Young Pacific Leaders, Bridger Pacific, and the introduction of NFL Flag to thousands of Fijian students. These initiatives have opened doors, built bridges and inspired futures. Cheers to the banner blue. Today, I salute you, America — may your celebration shine as brightly as your ideals. LAVENIA MALAMA Nabua Rd, Nabua
Christian State and Sunday rest
THE Methodist Church of Fiji has once again joined the chorus of voices calling for Fiji to be declared a Christian state, while also advocating for a nationwide “Sunday rest” policy. To many, this is eerily reminiscent of the Sunday ban imposed following the 1987 coup. Such impractical proposals represent no progress. The Methodist Church cannot escape its own history. It played a significant and deeply controversial role during Fiji’s political upheavals, lending moral and, in many instances, open support to the coups of 1987 and 2000 under the guise of protecting indigenous rights. During the 2000 crisis and with a Bible in one hand, influential figures within the church hierarchy publicly sympathised with those responsible for the violent overthrow of the democratically elected government led by Mahendra Chaudhry and even spoke of pardons for the perpetrators (rebels). This raises a fundamental question: How can an institution entrusted with preaching love, peace, justice and forgiveness reconcile those Christian values with its historical tolerance of violence, intimidation, looting and the destruction of property inflicted upon innocent Indo-Fijian, (the primary victims of the coups), during those dark chapters of our history? Nearly four decades later, what has all that political and religious posturing achieved? Indigenous supremacy? A booming economy? Nothing but a fractured, financial and economic ruin. Despite the repeated claims that coups were necessary to safeguard so-called indigenous interests, many native Fijians continue to face significant socio-economic challenges till date. Poverty remains widespread, and many of those entering the prison system come from Christian backgrounds. Meanwhile, countless members of communities once labelled as “vulagi” have continued to contribute significantly to Fiji’s economy through enterprise, education and hard work. Not through coups. Rather than campaigning to declare Fiji a Christian state or advocating symbolic measures such as compulsory Sunday restrictions, the Methodist Church would better serve the nation by focusing on the genuine upliftment of its own people. It should champion education, skills development, employment, family welfare, addiction rehabilitation and poverty reduction. These are practical initiatives that can transform lives. Fiji’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, allowing every citizen to worship according to their own beliefs. That diversity is one of our nation’s strengths and should be protected, not diminished. The Methodist Church can make its greatest contribution not by entering political debates or seeking constitutional changes, but by returning to its core mission, that is preaching the word of God to its faithful flock. You can also pray and fast as much as you desire. NISHANT SINGH Lautoka
Facing the voters
I LIKE the real time interaction between the public and office holders that was done before and the recent one in Levuka whilst we head towards general election and the campaign period is slowly getting its momentum. Fiji Media Council has led the way in these so called campaign, instead of political parties coming and making promises the current office holders are bombarded with real time everyday issues that needs to be addressed now. I believe this should be done in every quarter so that issues faced by the voters of Fiji is addressed accordingly. Vinaka Fiji Media Council. JUKI FONG CHEW Nadawa, Nasinu
Industrial matters
I SALUTE Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, for the role that he has played in averting a strike. Mr Singh was a successful teacher and administrator and served the Fiji Teachers Union as its general secretary since 1999 and the Fiji Trades Union Congress as the National treasurer. He has ethics that make him stand out as a leader and minister. I commend Mr Singh for successfully facilitating an agreement between the National Union of Workers (NUW) and the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), resolving key industrial matters ahead of the crushing season. The meeting, that was held in Nadi, focused on roster backpay, collective agreement and roster arrangements for this year’s crushing season. I’m glad that both parties agreed to finalise the calculations for workers’ roster backpay and sign a memorandum of agreement. Quick intervention from Mr Singh saved the situation. Mr Singh is also on record for averting strikes in the past at Fiji Water, Energy Fiji Ltd, and Ba Town Council. When the going gets tough, Mr Singh also gets tough and through his mediation skills successfully mediates and resolves disputes. Good work Mr Singh! As minister for Fiji’s labour and work force, Mr Singh has the workers at his heart and the heart of a lion, coming from a union background. RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Balgovind Rd, Nadawa, Nasinu
FIFA World Cup thrills
AS the 2026 World Cup progresses, fans around the globe are witnessing some unexpected results that keep the excitement levels sky-high. The tournament has not only showcased impressive displays of skill, but has also brought to light some thrilling upsets. Despite the challenges, many of the world’s renowned strikers, including Lionel Messi, have been successfully netting goals for their countries, much to the delight of their fans. We are now nearing the end of the Round of 32 matches, and the intensity of competition is palpable. As these early rounds conclude, several celebrated teams and players have unfortunately already been shown the exit door. This unpredictable nature is a testament to the evolving dynamics of international football and underscores how even the most esteemed teams cannot rest on their laurels. As a dedicated follower of this beautiful game, I am captivated by the unfolding drama and eagerly anticipate what further surprises lie ahead as we march toward the final. The World Cup never fails to remind us of the unpredictable beauty of football, a sport where anything can happen, and every match holds the potential to rewrite history. SURESH CHAND Nadi
$20m tax fraud
THE revelations reported on June 29 2026 regarding the departure of a taxpayer allegedly linked to the $20 million tax fraud are deeply troubling and raise serious questions about the integrity of Fiji’s border–control and tax–enforcement systems. According to the Finance Minister, two contradictory letters were issued by FRCS — one revoking the Departure Prohibition Order (DPO), followed almost immediately by another reinstating it. Yet despite this, the taxpayer, a naturalised Fiji citizen who also holds Chinese nationality, managed to leave the country (FT 29/06/26). This is not a minor administrative oversight. It is a systemic failure with potentially massive financial and reputational consequences for Fiji. When a taxpayer implicated in one of the largest alleged tax frauds in our history can slip through the cracks, it signals vulnerabilities that criminals can exploit repeatedly unless decisive corrective action is taken. If such lapses are becoming more frequent — and public sentiment suggests they are — then Fiji must seriously consider adopting an Exit Visa Platform. Under such a system, every citizen departing Fiji would require clearance from relevant agencies confirming that they have no pending criminal matters, no outstanding tax liabilities, and no encumbrances that warrant a DPO. Many jurisdictions use similar mechanisms to prevent financial fugitives and organised–crime actors from evading accountability. The public deserves assurance that this incident will not be swept aside as a “procedural error.” The Prime Minister must ensure that heads roll where necessary, because accountability is the cornerstone of public trust. Those responsible for authorising or enabling this lapse — whether through negligence, incompetence, or worse — must face consequences. Furthermore, the State should move swiftly to freeze and recover all assets belonging to the taxpayer within Fiji, pending the outcome of investigations. This case must become the catalyst for closing every loophole that allows financial criminals to exploit our systems. Fiji cannot afford to lose millions in revenue, nor can it afford the erosion of public confidence in institutions tasked with safeguarding our national interests. Strengthening enforcement, modernising border controls, and ensuring absolute transparency in FRCS operations are now urgent national priorities. DR SUSHIL K SHARMA Lautoka
Yusuf’s rhetoric
I AM baffled by the rhetoric of FFA CEO, Mohammed Yusuf, that the salt like substance thrown by the Ba soccer player did not breach any rules. He goes on to say no action would be taken as the “substance”” did not pose any harm to any player. I believe that action of the Ba player and the non action of the referee during the game and FFA after the game, has a lot of repercussions for the beautiful game of football, individual players who have their own beliefs, officials and teams. I believe that his comparison of the huddled player prayers on the field to that of throwing salt is preposterous. FIFA Law 12 ( Fouls & Misconduct), clearly stipulates that “Referees must issue yellow card to any player caught spreading, spraying, or throwing substances (like salt or ashes) on pitch.” Under official FIFA safety code, spectators and players are universally prohibited from throwing objects or substances onto the field of play. FIFA regulation also stipulates that, “putting unauthorised substances into the ground, such as salt powder or liquids is strictly prohibited.” The regulation further states, “whether done for tactical tricks, rituals, or superstition, these acts are subject to direct disciplinary action from the referee.” So which FIFA law book is FFA following? For arguments sake, like Mr. Yusuf rebutted, if the object or substance does not pose any danger, then players and officials can come up with ashes, blood or even urine, as we have all sorts of believers amongst us. I believe that FFA must act, not purely as a punitive measure against the player or Ba, but to keep football over and above vodoo syndrome. ARUN PRASAD Dilkusha, Nausori
Warmer clothing
IT is understood that most school uniforms are of thin apparel/materials and there are no options during the cooler months as we are experiencing now. I wish to suggest that schools should have alternatives so that it could provide warmth and comfort. Imagine our tiny tots and kindagartens. School children travel early morning by bus, school trucks, punts etcetera let alone those in the highlands. Can the big wigs have some thoughts for our little ones. Please look down and stop the habits of looking up. JIOJI O. TORONIBAU Navetau, Tunuloa
Obstruction of disable parking space
IT is with great concern to note the obstruction of a designated disabled parking space at the newly revamped shopping arcade in central Sauva opposite the bus stand in Rodwell Rd. The barriers have been placed within this reserved area, preventing access and use by persons with disabilities who rely on these spaces for safe and convenient entry. Disabled parking spaces are legally mandated and essential for ensuring equal access. Blocking these spaces with barriers not only violates accessibility requirements, but also discriminates against individuals with mobility challenges. This creates unnecessary hardship and undermines the inclusive environment expected of a public facility. This is a breach of our Constitution which states that persons with disabilities have the right to reasonable access to all places, public transport and information. They also have the right to reasonable adaptation of buildings, infrastructure, vehicles, rules, practices or procedures to enable full participation in society. Placing barriers in a disabled parking space at a shopping center breaches the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2018, which guarantee reasonable access to public facilities. It also conflicts with Fiji’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). SATISH NARAYAN Nasilivata Rd, Nadera
Changing family dynamics
FAMILY gatherings over breakfast and dinner have been common in many households and might still be today. However, more families are now eating on the go, hurrying off to work or their next appointment. With family members often returning home at different times, those moments of sharing and socialising are diminishing. Research indicates that eating together is not only a great way to begin or conclude the day, but it also supports healthy eating habits and helps with weight control. A study from Stanford University highlights that when a family sits down together, it aids in managing the stresses and challenges of everyday life. Regularly scheduling mealtimes, according to the study, can improve family dynamics. I agree with this perspective. SURESH CHAND Nadi
