The crazy fuel crisis
Figures available publicly show there are about 38,000 in civil service plus about 4000 in public service entities. It is reported a wage bill of about $1.2 billion is needed to maintain Fiji’s civil service. This is no small wage bill for little Fiji. When one group of civil servants presses for a 15 per cent pay increase, the follow-on effect by the rest will take Fiji into deep financial quagmire. Fiji needs to tread extremely carefully as we strive to manoeuvre through this crazy fuel crisis — a by-product of a very unpredictable US President Trump and his Israeli mate, Prime Minister Netanyahu. They have effectively put almost the whole world economy into financial tail-spin not seen since World War II in 1939-1945. The world is suffering economically. At this important juncture, Fiji thanks big brother Australia for the handsome financial assistance of $A30million or approximately $F47million to take care of our current fuel crisis. This is extremely generous. In the words of Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong: “Fiji is a leader in the Pacific region. So it is only natural that we would want to deepen our relationship with Fiji.” Such a compliment carries enormous weight. Like him; loathe him or hate him, in these challenging times, Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka must be doing things right by international standards. Give him some credit despite his senior years, human limitations, successes and mis-steps. He is only human; doing the best he can in challenging international circumstances. Thank you, Sir. It is humanely impossible to please everyone; all the time. You are doing the best you can. That’s important. RONNIE CHANG Martintar, Nadi
Clean out the ranks
The PM has commented on the disciplinary forces’ internal clean-up (FT 6/5/26). As a career military officer, prior to becoming a politician, I believe Mr Rabuka actually understands the current scenario. However, the majority of the time, such “unpredictable misconduct” happened because of the Government’s structural fragmentation, in my view. On that note, the Government itself has to have the public’s confidence and I am certain, all that have been exposed so far, have reflected negative opinions, generally. Why and how has such disrespectful and dishonorable “unbecoming behaviours” happened? There has to be a “reference point”, that founded such a chain of illegal activities, which I believe, have tie-ups with some of the government’s agencies. And I am certain, nothing so deep and organised as has been witnessed, came to being overnight, without the aid from some top tier “government elites”. Dr Martin Luther King Jr stated, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that.” Samu Silatolu Nakasi, Nausori
Christian state
Renewed calls have once again been made for Fiji to be declared a Christian state, this time by villagers from Nasau, Moce in the Lau Group. As I have stated before, officially branding Fiji as a Christian nation will not magically strengthen our already fragile economy, reduce poverty, create jobs, or improve the lives of ordinary Fijians. Before making such declarations, Fijians must first demonstrate genuine Christian values through justice, honesty, compassion, accountability, and fair governance. Judging by the current state of the country, Fiji is falling far short of these basic principles. We are more like a banana republic to be honest! Rather than obsessing over religious labels, our leaders and communities should focus on the actual issues hindering national progress, the rising cost of living, food security, unemployment, violent crime, drug abuse, corruption, selective law enforcement and the ongoing socio-economic struggles faced by many indigenous Fijians despite the country’s abundant natural resources which they claim to “own”. So, for now I would suggest to those aggressively advocating for a Christian state, please drop this unfeasible idea and re-align your emphasis on economic enhancement. A country does not automatically become “Christian” simply by declaration. Nishant Singh Lautoka
$47million question
While we applaud our Australian big brother for the $47million fuel support, we also seek to know what exactly it means. Severe TC Winston victims are still recovering, I heard, despite the heaps of millions of aid that came into the country at the time. I’m glad the $47million fuel help is not a loan. Or is it? Are budget supports loans? Donald Singh Nausori
Thoughtful suggestion
Thank you Hon. Rinesh Sharma. I read your post about stools or chairs to be available for supermarket staff who work for long hours a day. I think for the first time I came across someone from Parliament coming up with such a thought. This is a simple suggestion but a very important one. I must say, I’m quite impressed. We have a very rich businessman sitting in those big chairs who operates a supermarket even here in Lautoka. One of my favourite shopping venues. Maybe he can start this thoughtful practice to set an example. Once again, I will say, imagine the blessings that one could get in doing those simple humane actions. Let’s hope to see this happening soon in supermarkets. Good ideas and suggestions which reflect humanity at large is always welcome no matter who throws it in. Vinaka for the great humble thought. Kirti Patel Lautoka
$47m fuel help
Yesterday’s front page headline “$47m fuel help” provided a fresh breath of optimism as the nation battles the escalating fuel crisis. Our neighbour, Australia, who has always lent a helping hand during a natural disaster, came to the fore like a good neighbour and saviour, assisting Fiji respond to the global fuel crisis and the fight against drugs. I thank the Australian Government for this kind gesture! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Some statsplease
Do you know why only 13,000 people follow the Fiji Bureau of Statistics Facebook page? Because they don’t post any statistics! All they are posting are pictures of them attending this conference and that workshop. But zero insightful statistics. Then what is the point of their organisation? Can they post statistics on how many migrant workers are in the country? How many young Fijians have managed to purchase a house? What is the trend in the air quality index in our cities and towns? Please close your Facebook page if you don’t have any data to share with the public. Minister for Information — thoughts? Kiran Khatri Suva
US tariff
RBF reports our exports dropped by 8.7 per cent for January while imports grew by 0.4 per cent. US topped our export destination with mineral water, kava and turmeric. Lately, there was news that US had created a portal to assess and reimburse the imposed tariffs by Trump administration. Would RBF inform us how much in US dollars we would be reimbursed. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Better be nice
I knew it. Whenever Australian ministers visit Fiji, they always come bearing gifts. On Wednesday Australia gave $47m in fuel support to Fiji. No one knows exactly where this money will end up but the outstretched hand of Fiji is always there when senior Australian government ministers pay a visit. What will Fiji and Fijians do without Australia? So, better think twice before you say nasty things about Australia and Australians, acha? Jan Nissar Sydney, Australia
Fuel crisis and tourism
The Fiji Times reports on a sharp decline in Fiji tourism (FT 15/4) as a result of the fuel crisis. To address this, we all have a major role to play to support this and promote this valuable asset in Fiji. We are well blessed with natural resources on par with other developing countries. I hope fuel disruptions will only be temporary during this crisis. Bula smile welcome is traditionally blessed for Fijians. Visitors always feel at home. They always want to return. Tahir Ali Hamilton, New Zealand
Rugby and soccer
The return of Vakatawa
The selection of former France International Virimi Vakatawa into the Drua earlier this year and into the Flying Fijians squad lately is not only a show of the young man’s resilience and commitment but a journey that has taken a full cycle to be back where he is today. I had the privilege of teaching him in his and my former school, where he was a household name in schools rugby under the great mentorship of Master Dan Vakamoce and Master Inosi Seru. Being the highlight of the news after every week of schools rugby, I usually notice how he remains grounded and humble, depicting his upbringing in the corrugated lean-to-house back in Naluwai, Naitasiri. From secondary school, he entered straight into Top 14 for Racing Metro and the rest is history. He later donned the Tri-colours jersey in the World 7s Series and later the Les Blues in the full version of the game. At one point, he was the only player not to be contracted to a club, but was contracted only for national duties in both 7s and 15s rugby. But fans were left disappointed after it was announced that he will not be playing again because of a medical condition. However, few years later Vakatawa has risen again, but now to don the very jumper where his humble rugby career began. And regardless of whether he is chosen for the final 32-member squad or not, he has shown what pure resilience, dedication, sacrifice and commitment can do anyone in sports. He is very much a role model for all young kids in Fiji today. Wishing Vakatawa the very best and may you don the white and black coconut emblem tagane. Toso tiko ga. Sowani Vito St John’s College, Ovalau
Extra Premier League
Labasa’s composed away performance brought Ba’s unbeaten run in the Extra Premier League to a dramatic halt at the 4R Stadium in Govind Park. They secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory in what proved to be a closely contested match. From the very beginning, the intensity was high, yet clear opportunities were limited. Labasa, however, made their intentions known early, taking full advantage of a crucial chance to establish a 1-0 lead by halftime. In the second half, Ba responded by increasing their tempo and attacking efforts, fuelled by the support of their home crowd. However, Labasa remained disciplined, maintaining their defensive structure and absorbing the mounting pressure effectively. At a pivotal moment in the game, Labasa doubled their lead, leaving Ba with an uphill battle. Although the hosts managed to pull one goal back late in the match, creating a tense finale, Labasa stood firm and secured all three points. This marked Ba’s first defeat of the season. This victory is an important milestone for Labasa as they continue their pursuit in the competition. Meanwhile, Ba will now need to regroup and refocus following the end of their impressive winning streak on home turf. In another exciting match of the round, Lautoka edged past Nadroga with a narrow 3-2 win. The match was fast paced from start to finish, with both teams trading goals throughout. Despite a relentless contest, Lautoka managed to hold their ground and secure the win. This result helped Lautoka maintain their momentum and keep climbing in the league standings. Every team is giving their utmost effort to secure a better position in their standings as the season progresses. Suresh Chand Nadi
