Chiefly succession PAUL GERAGHTY USP, SUVA
YOUR feature writer Sunil Chand (FT 8/11/25) makes the extraordinary claim that in pre-colonial times, chiefs were not hereditary but earned their position through their ‘courage, wisdom and service to the vanua’. Happily, another contributor on the same day, Dr Subhash Appanna, lists the signatories to the Deed of Cession, essentially the most powerful chiefs of eastern Fiji in pre-colonial times, so we can check to what extent Mr Chand’s claim holds true. The answer is simple: every signatory to the Deed of Cession, with the exception of the Tongan Ma’afu, was the son of his predecessor. The only partial exception among the Fijian chiefs was Ritova, who was the uterine nephew of his predecessor, that being the custom in Macuata. References to works by Hocart, France, Nayacakalou and Ravuvu may give your readers the impression that these scholars support Mr Chand’s claim. Careful reading of what they actually wrote will disabuse them of this notion. They did point out that the ‘colonial orthodoxy’ was too rigid and not an accurate representation of traditional practices, but all agreed that the bloodline and seniority were the most important criteria.
Homelessness in Suva NOA NADRUKU NAVUA
I WRITE as a young student at Fiji National University, studying civil engineering, and as a resident of the Central Division who cares deeply about our community’s welfare. I wish to draw attention to the problem of homelessness in Suva. Recent reports reveal that a large percentage of Fiji’s homeless population live in the capital. In one profiling exercise by the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, 39 homeless people were identified in Suva City, including 16 children under 18. This is deeply concerning for a small country like ours. What troubles me most is that we often think of homelessness as someone else’s problem, but when so many are concentrated in our capital, it becomes a national concern. The causes are many — land scarcity, urban migration, unemployment, and family breakdown — but the effect is one that touches all of us. Homelessness also affects Fiji’s tourism industry, which is one of our major sources of income. Tourists visiting Suva expect a friendly, clean, and safe environment. When they see people sleeping on the streets or struggling in public areas, it changes their impression of our country. Addressing homelessness is not just a moral responsibility — it’s also an investment in our national image, economy, and the future of our tourism sector. As a future engineer, I believe that part of the solution lies in planning with people, not just building infrastructure. Government, NGOs, and communities must work together to provide safe shelters, transitional housing, and skills training. Public awareness and compassion are just as important as development projects. Homelessness is not only a social welfare issue — it affects public health, safety, and Fiji’s reputation as a welcoming nation. I call upon the authorities to commit to a long-term plan to support those without homes and give them the dignity they deserve. Thank you for giving space to this important matter. I hope this letter sparks conversation, planning, and action so that in the years ahead, Suva becomes a city where no one is left behind.
Go home! NISHANT SINGH LAUTOKA
IF Fijian seasonal workers in Australia believe they are facing harsh, “Girmitiya-like” conditions, then perhaps it is best that they pack up and return home (FT 10/11). I wonder whether the recent reports of Fijians engaging in unruly or criminal behaviour in Australia have contributed to the resentment and tough treatment they are now receiving from their employers. Actions have consequences, after all. As for racial inequality, well it is hardly a new phenomenon for anyone living in a foreign land. Here in Fiji, the vulagi, regularly endure racial abuse, threats and intimidation tactics. Yet, being better individuals, we continue to smile, persevere, and strive forward. I suggest these Fijian workers in Australia man up and do the same. Remember, you are not in Fiji where you can do as you please! But if the heat is too hot to handle in the white man’s land, then do catch the next flight home. There’s plenty of idle, para-grass covered land just sitting here waiting to be cultivated. Turn it into farmland, plant some cassava or vudi and earn a decent living. No one’s stopping you.
Empowering women KIRTI PATEL LAUTOKA
I THINK this is a long way to go but not impossible.
But why? JAN NISSAR SYDNEY, NSW, AUSTRALIA
I HAVE met Kirti Patel several times over the years. She is a very nice iron lady. We do not see eye to eye and have totally opposite views on almost everything but that is nothing new. I probably have totally opposite views to everyone on everything. But why do people want to shut down my freedom of speech — in a free country?
RHD alert RODNEY CLARENCE RAJ NALEBA, LABASA
I REFER to the article by Elena Vucukula on Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) (FT 10/11, Page 4), which highlights the growing concern over the increasing number of cases. In July, 4987 patients were reported to be suffering from this disease. RHD is caused by rheumatic fever, which damages the heart valves. This illness is commonly found among pregnant mothers and school children between the ages of 5 and 15 years. If patients are not treated at an early stage, they may develop serious heart problems later in life. This can lead to high personal medical costs, increased government health expenses, and most tragically, the loss of lives. Early detection, proper treatment, and continuous awareness are vital to controlling the rise of RHD in Fiji.
PALM workers SELWA NANDAN LAUTOKA
THE Assistant Minister for Health has likened the working and living conditions of some of our seasonal workers in Australia as similar to that of Girmitiyas (FT 10/11). I tend to disagree for in my view that is not a fair comparison. The pain, suffering, mental and physical torture and inhumane treatment our Indian indentured labourers endured at the hands of their colonial masters were no less than slavery. In contrast I believe the lives of our seasonal workers are much better as they have access to more rights to seek redress which was virtually nonexistent during the girmit era.
Speeding kills WISE MUAVONO BALAWA, LAUTOKA
THE road death toll now stands at 65 compared with 51 for the same period last year. What will it take to get through to the thick skull of some drivers that speeding kills? Is pushing your speed worth it? Do not be a numb skull and drive at a safe speed. Sobo!
Ministerial trips TOMASI BOGINISO LIVERPOOL, NSW, AUSTRALIA
THIS has been the a scenario of past governments to the present, if the Government sees it benefits Fiji so be it. If the Government changes again, it will definitely be brought up again. Why don’t you just concentrate on your daily business and try and solve what’s affecting our beloved Fiji at this very moment such as drug issues, child abuse, poverty, unemployment and many more. Our parliament sessions have turned into a boxing ring rather than a debate arena. Opposition should come up with ideas that would help the Government implement legislation accordingly. Come on man, grow up.
Power to the people SAMU SILATOLU NAKASI
THE Coalition government spent $64,000+, for Fiji Day overseas (FT 5/11/25). Has any government done this, prior? What actually was the motive? Whatever the PM and his entourage’s reasonings were, for as long as it was, in my opinion, to capture “practical transformation” for Fiji’s greater good, then it should be appreciated. If it was just the usual “sightseeing” practice, then it was all a waste of government’s funds. When will the government learn? Expenditure wastage and corruption, in my view, are the two deadly enemies of any government’s financial survival. Mr Rabuka is not a new PM, second only to Ratu Mara. Looking at all of his political experiences, in my view, he has really learned the art of “political manipulation”. However, after the 2022 General Election, nearly all voters were gearing up for a promising new horizon, but to no avail. The selfenrichment mind-set still lingers and it is, in my view, becoming an “epidemic”, within Fiji’s political sphere. Something has to change and the Fiji people have the power to do it.
What national disgrace? PECELI ALISTIR WAITOLU, NAITASIRI
I APPRECIATE Rajend Naidu’s right to express his view, (FT 31/10), but I must respectfully differ. My earlier letter did not suggest that government appointments are beyond criticism — rather, it sought to remind us that public service, whether as minister or assistant minister, must ultimately be judged by performance, not numbers. It is easy to be swayed by outrage, but democracy allows each elected government to structure its team according to the challenges before it. What matters most is accountability, transparency, and the delivery of real outcomes for the people. Let us move beyond personal attacks and focus instead on how those entrusted with leadership can serve with integrity and purpose. That is the national interest we should all strive to protect.
Usual errors! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU
I SALUTE captain Tevita Ikanivere, who scored two great tries from set-piece play, for being brave and coming out publicly, admitting that disciplinary blunders cost the Fiji Water Flying Fijians greatly. The 38-18 loss has not been digested well by the rugbyloving fraternity, especially when the boys led England and had the opportunity to shut the game in their favour. I agree with Ikanivere (FT: 10/11) that the loss was not the desired result and attributed to the calls made on the field. Decision making was critical and will come handy against the Les Bleus of France who are feeling the heat after getting hammered 32- 17 at home at the hands of the reigning RWC champions. A lot of work is needed ahead of the crunch battle on Sunday morning. Our fitness levels must improve. Tackles must count. The team must work on its discipline as Selestino Ravutaumada and Josua Tuisova saw yellow. Ravutaumada must have counted his lucky stars as he could have been given the marching orders. The pools for the 2027 RWC will be drawn soon and the Flying Fijians must improve their ranking, meaning a good game against France and Spain.
Go Fiji, go SHALWYN PRASAD MUKTA BEN PLACE NABUA, SUVA
A WIN over England would have elevated Fiji to 7th in World Rugby rankings, noting both Australia 7th and Scotland 8th lost their respective test matches over the weekend. All three teams are locked at 81 points, separated by digits and the next round of autumn tests will determine the progress or decline in rankings. None the less, good challenge by the Flying Fijians and it was quite evident that England panicked and sent their “bomb squad” in the last quarter to diffuse the spirited and intelligent rugby as noted by the commentators that Fiji was playing. Well done to captain Ikanavere and boys, great game winning the offload and turnover possessions stats. We are all behind you Mick Bynes and we can see the skill set that you introduced with the All Blacks is gaining fruit. Beware the Rooster blues next in France. What a thriller, noting Fiji’s second home of rugby. Joka dina. Vacava tacina?
Rugby tests SAVERIO BALEIKANACEA DELAINAVESI, LAMI
TWO issues. First, why didn’t Fiji Rugby Union ( FRU) arrange and have a strong warm up match for the Flying Fijians before such a crucial test against the number four in the world who last week defeated Australia who defeated Fiji about three months ago? This is a very poor judgment call by FRU. Secondly, what has FRU been doing on the issue of demanding tier one nations to be fair and to give opportunity and respect to Fiji by according it test rugby status on Fijian soil in Fiji. Only a handful of countries like Scotland have respect for Fiji and have played Fiji in Fiji. I’m quite sure if Fiji made a request to South Africa, the Springboks will come. On the other hand, the rugby super powers close to us who consider and call us members of the same vuvale or family of nations inspite of the fact that we have been playing rugby for over a hundred years now do not have the decency and respect to give us test rugby status in Fiji. They would rather play us somewhere else like in the USA, or in their own country under one pretext or another. The sad part of it is that World Rugby the body that should be promoting and supporting our interests, particularly small countries like ours is dominated and controlled by these super powers of rugby. And to make matters worse, this government, inspite of the many meetings they have especially the Prime Minister, Hon Sitiveni Rabuka with his counterparts, no such worthy initiative will be expected. If this Government has more wisdom, care, and commitment for its young people and citizens it will be pushing for national test rugby to be held in Fiji and requesting the support of the Australian and New Zealand governments for Fiji’s inclusions in the top national sporting competitions of the two countries like in the Australian NRL and New Zealand NPC. We should be learning from the successful story of the Drua. The same can be replicated if at least one Fiji team is participating in their national competitions or championship at the highest level. Imagine the potential and future opportunities it can bring not only to rugby and rugby league but also other sports like soccer, netball, basketball, etc. Vinaha vahalevu.
