Boxing gem
Mikaele Ravalaca is a gem. Fiji Boxing must invest in him. Mikaele made a winning statement when he knocked out Kaliova Tahakia in the third round in Saturday’s main supporting bout. Mikaele’s fitness, stamina, agility and sharpness stood out. He was a weight above his opponent. Mikaele needs more quality boxers to sharpen his skills and boost his confidence. Our next go-to man! On the other hand, the heavyweight category of the Bluewater Boxing Promotion’s ‘Lawaqa Rumble’ in Sigatoka came under the spotlight because of the decision made by the judges. Far too often in Fiji, boxers have cried foul over the decision made by the judges. On Saturday, James ‘The Beast’ Singh’s corner accused the judges of poor officiating. The clash entertained fans but ended in controversy. In the past, Indian boxers like Aarti Hooda and Varun Phartyal made media headlines after complaining that they fell victims to the decisions made by the judges. Promoters invest heavily in boxing battles, and it is only fair that judges do their part. We are trying to revive boxing, and such actions will dampen that spirit! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Who polices the police?
The allegations aired at the Lami Women’s Forum on May 26 — that police vehicles may have been used in drug-related activities — deserve far more than a ministerial call for “proper verification”. They demand a national alarm. Fiji is not dealing with street-level narcotics. The 2.6-tonne cocaine seizure at Vatia confirmed what investigators have long suspected: the volumes moving through Fiji’s waters are measured in tonnes, the proceeds in hundreds of millions — and by credible regional estimates, potentially in billions of Fijian dollars. When that volume of illicit money enters any economy, it does not sit quietly. It moves through property markets, inflating house prices beyond the reach of ordinary families. It enters businesses, distorting competition. It corrupts institutions from the inside — beginning, historically, with the very agencies tasked with stopping it. That is precisely what makes Minister Ioane Naivalurua’s response inadequate. The allegation was not raised by a junior constable gossiping at a forum. It was revealed by a senior officer. When insiders speak, the appropriate response is not to redirect the matter through “proper channels” — channels which may themselves be compromised. It is to trigger an immediate independent external investigation. The voluntary drug testing of Members of Parliament, including Prime Minister Rabuka, is commendable as symbolism. But symbolism is not compliance. Any officer, customs official, immigration officer or judicial figure who holds gatekeeping authority over Fiji’s borders and courts must submit to mandatory, random, independently administered drug testing as a condition of public service — not as a lifestyle choice. Minister Naivalurua’s appeal to “individual rights” collapses the moment an individual accepts public power over public safety. Narco-money is the most corrosive force a small island economy can absorb. Fiji has seen what it does to communities. The nation must now ask itself plainly: if those charged with compliance are compromised, who enforces compliance on them? That question cannot wait for a committee recommendation. Dr Sushil K Sharma Lautoka
Going rural
It is only human. The modern woman and man, having grown up, educated in our towns and cities, enjoy the comforts, infrastructure, and facilities, will find it almost impossible to relocate to remote rural places and maritime destinations. The time has come for the Ministry of Education in collaboration of Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, Provincial Councils and the like to begin to identify younger iTaukei women and men from various villages, mataqali etc, to train, under State scholarships as teachers, doctors, nurses, farmers, human resource management and other required disciplines. This is one way forward, in my view. Imagine living in cities and towns with all the modern comforts and facilities; then journeying back into the distant past with proper electricity, running water, medical facilities, smart TV, and a digital environment. This can be almost “mission impossible”. Remote rural and maritime folks must be trained now to be self-reliant. Ronnie Chang Martintar, Nadi
Change of uniform
Every now and then we have seen issues reported in the mainstream media on allegations against police officers involvement with drugs. While the due process will take its course, I would like to share a reminder to all serving active members of the Fiji Police. During my early days (1990s) in the Fiji Police, we were always reminded by our Station Officer during the lecture days every Wednesday on the topic — be careful of the change of uniform. What he meant was the change of uniform from blue to orange (prisoners uniform). That warning is still very much relevant then, now and into the future. Despite what position one holds or institution one works for, always be reminded of the saying always be careful of the change of uniform. Juki Fong Chew Nadawa, Nasinu
Who polices the police?
The allegations aired at the Lami Women’s Forum on May 26 — that police vehicles may have been used in drug-related activities — deserve far more than a ministerial call for “proper verification”. They demand a national alarm. Fiji is not dealing with street-level narcotics. The 2.6-tonne cocaine seizure at Vatia confirmed what investigators have long suspected: the volumes moving through Fiji’s waters are measured in tonnes, the proceeds in hundreds of millions — and by credible regional estimates, potentially in billions of Fijian dollars. When that volume of illicit money enters any economy, it does not sit quietly. It moves through property markets, inflating house prices beyond the reach of ordinary families. It enters businesses, distorting competition. It corrupts institutions from the inside — beginning, historically, with the very agencies tasked with stopping it. That is precisely what makes Minister Ioane Naivalurua’s response inadequate. The allegation was not raised by a junior constable gossiping at a forum. It was revealed by a senior officer. When insiders speak, the appropriate response is not to redirect the matter through “proper channels” — channels which may themselves be compromised. It is to trigger an immediate independent external investigation. The voluntary drug testing of Members of Parliament, including Prime Minister Rabuka, is commendable as symbolism. But symbolism is not compliance. Any officer, customs official, immigration officer or judicial figure who holds gatekeeping authority over Fiji’s borders and courts must submit to mandatory, random, independently administered drug testing as a condition of public service — not as a lifestyle choice. Minister Naivalurua’s appeal to “individual rights” collapses the moment an individual accepts public power over public safety. Narco-money is the most corrosive force a small island economy can absorb. Fiji has seen what it does to communities. The nation must now ask itself plainly: if those charged with compliance are compromised, who enforces compliance on them? That question cannot wait for a committee recommendation. Dr Sushil K Sharma Lautoka
Going rural
It is only human. The modern woman and man, having grown up, educated in our towns and cities, enjoy the comforts, infrastructure, and facilities, will find it almost impossible to relocate to remote rural places and maritime destinations. The time has come for the Ministry of Education in collaboration of Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, Provincial Councils and the like to begin to identify younger iTaukei women and men from various villages, mataqali etc, to train, under State scholarships as teachers, doctors, nurses, farmers, human resource management and other required disciplines. This is one way forward, in my view. Imagine living in cities and towns with all the modern comforts and facilities; then journeying back into the distant past with proper electricity, running water, medical facilities, smart TV, and a digital environment. This can be almost “mission impossible”. Remote rural and maritime folks must be trained now to be self-reliant. Ronnie Chang Martintar, Nadi
Change of uniform
Every now and then we have seen issues reported in the mainstream media on allegations against police officers involvement with drugs. While the due process will take its course, I would like to share a reminder to all serving active members of the Fiji Police. During my early days (1990s) in the Fiji Police, we were always reminded by our Station Officer during the lecture days every Wednesday on the topic — be careful of the change of uniform. What he meant was the change of uniform from blue to orange (prisoners uniform). That warning is still very much relevant then, now and into the future. Despite what position one holds or institution one works for, always be reminded of the saying always be careful of the change of uniform. Juki Fong Chew Nadawa, Nasinu
Says it all!
Headline P1 “Chronic absenteeism and lateness: MPs get telling off” (FT 26/5). Header P4 “Tabuya: Removal of derelict vessels on track” (FT 27/5). Christopher Griffin Perth, Australia
Tin moo!
I would love to see which part of the cow is processed for tin meat. Sometimes, seeing the contents, I’d rather eat the tin. Sobo! Wise Muavono Balawa, Lautoka
Win big
Donald Singh (LTE 26/05/26). For the Drua boys not to be cheated next season like we were cheated in the Super Pacific rounds this season, is for our boys to hit every tackle hard and clean around the rib cage and not allow the opposition to squeeze through any gaps. Pile on the points in the first half and keep play in the opposition half. Edward Kumar Lautoka
Respect our leaders
It just shows the behaviour of humans sometimes. If one doesn’t show respect to humans, wonder if they have respect for God? NAVNEET RAM (TD) Lautoka
Missing in action
MPs have been missing in action! Imagine if we were copycats. “Ouch” standing, I think. Mohammed Imraz Janif Natabua, Lautoka
Timely reminder
Thank you Mr Speaker, sir for your timely reminders. I guess that’s a result of an electoral system that produces MPs who don’t win on votes and profess to represent everyone (and no-one). Accountability = zero! Daniel Fatiaki Suva
Election race
Fiji’s official election campaign has begun (FT 25/5/26). Most registered political parties have already laid out their strategies, in my view. It should be very interesting to learn of their manifestos, where some, I am certain, would just make a few adjustments. Most of these documented promises always look good on paper, but rarely possess practicalities. Since independence, Fiji’s multiracial societies have been voting primarily, I believe, in accordance with race and religion. Not with economic or social interests for that matter. Lately, the “social security”, I am certain, has become the government’s lifeline for dependents. Isn’t it sad? The deregistered FFP manipulated the system very well and survived two terms, in my opinion. This will always be, in my view, Fiji’s political magnetic voting attraction, in years to come. I believe, Fiji needs well structured and sensible nation-oriented manifestos, with visionary leadership. “Today, from a mudflat to a modern city. Ten years from now, this will be a metropolis. Never fear.” – Lee Kuan Yew. Isn’t it something to ponder on? Samu Silatolu Nakasi
PM, legacy and police
Ratu Sukuna’s legacy
Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna has left behind a legacy that our modern time leaders should take a leaf from. He was a man who put service before self. He sacrificed his personal and professional growth to serve his people and country. How many of our leaders can do this? Not only that, he put his life on the line when he joined the French army, all in the name of fighting for righteous. He protected the landowners by forming the Native Land Trust Board, And at the same time, the provision provided the indo-Fijians the opportunity to lease the land for farming and residential purposes. We will remain forever grateful to the visionary Ratu Sukuna for this. Otherwise after the girmit expiry, the girmitya would have been sent packing to India. No wonder the great leader earned the title “The Statesman”. Arun Prasad Dilkusha, Nausori
Everything but nothing
We seem to know everything about how it all works. Members of the public reportedly know about police trucks being used in drug-related activities. Senior figures including ministers have openly talked about how drug cartels do business, especially with police officers (allegedly). Some time ago I wrote about everyone knowing everything, albeit without any solution. I feel it is quite damaging to the reputation of our police officers when allegations are openly made against them, even if they are true (of course, to be proven in court).Is our situation akin to a dog chasing its tail? The tail is attached to the dog but the poor soul pursues it. If true, the “bad apple” cops are also attached to the same system in hot pursuit of them. With all that’s known, printed and said, what’s the difficulty in apprehending the alleged culprits? But I believe we will get there. Donald Singh Nausori
Best news
The best news for Fijians is that the PM will contest the next election and will seek to serve another four years. The man is a godsend and has served the country and its people for the last 40 years and has made immense personal sacrifices over half his lifetime to improve the lives of all Fijians. Fijians should embrace him for another four years and squeeze every bit of goodness out of him while they can. Just imagine where Fiji could have been or would have been if not for him for the last 40 years. More importantly, I shudder to think what Fijians will do once he is no longer around. Fijians should do everything to ensure his longevity because, I believe, without him Fiji would be doomed. Just ask him. He has unfinished business. Jan Nissar Sydney, Australia
Sugar on life support
I fully endorse the review article by Dr Sharma and congratulate him on a well-researched comment on the sugar industry. One thing the industry does not lack is published material on the subject. In fact I have been guilty of contributing to the library of comment. As a brief PS for sugar it is interesting to note that certain areas retain the public interest. I do not subscribe to the inevitable death of the industry. Twenty years ago a number of strategies were promulgated but failed to attract Cabinet attention – that is now history – but not irrelevant. It is worth mentioning that value-adding, smart partnerships and reviews of transport and strategies to attract investment were mooted but receive only intermittent mention at political level. I am now something of a distraction but it would gladden ageing eyes to see plans that define action that has some promise to improve the lot of those working all hours to provide the cane – so much the lifeblood of the industry. My urging is to produce a clear, workable plan to slow down decline but at least to improve reward for effort for those in the fields – perhaps to embrace proven private-sector ideas. Once again Dr Sharma thank you for such a professional comment. Professor Richard Beyer Pacific Harbour
