Examination security INDAR DEO BISUN SAKOCA HEIGHTS, TAMAVUA, SUVA
THE recent theft of Year 12 examination papers from a secondary school in Nadroga is deeply concerning but, unfortunately, not surprising. As I have served as a senior examination officer at the Fiji National University and the Fiji Institute of Technology from 2008 to 2013, I have seen first-hand the many vulnerabilities that exist in our examination storage and handling systems. While this latest incident has rightly drawn public attention, it is essential to recognise that such breaches may not be isolated events. If the system allowed Year 12 papers to be compromised today, it is possible that similar incidents have occurred quietly in the past, including with Year 13 exams. The theft of exam papers has far-reaching consequences. On the negative side, it undermines the credibility of national assessments and creates an uneven playing field for students. Honest students suffer when examination integrity is compromised, and confidence in our education system erodes. Breaches also create financial and administrative burdens: supplementary papers must be prepared, logistics reorganised, and investigations conducted, stretching both ministry resources and school operations. Moreover, the recent case highlights a critical procedural weakness. The Head of School reportedly insisted on storing the papers in his office instead of the District Education Office, in direct breach of standard operating procedures. In my professional experience, safe storage of examination papers requires strict adherence to centrally controlled guidelines, secure storage facilities, documented chains of custody, and continuous monitoring. A single lapse, whether due to negligence or convenience, exposes the entire system to risk. The policy and processes of procedures of the examination papers, at all times must be strictly adhered to However, this incident also offers opportunities. On the positive side, the swift response by the ministry, including an investigation, the preparation of supplementary papers, and a nationwide review of security protocols, is very commendable. Public exposure of the issue allows for greater accountability and opens the door for long-overdue improvements. To move forward, Fiji must strengthen examination security through several measures: 1. Strict enforcement of storage protocols — No school head should have personal discretion to alter mandated procedures. 2. Investment in secure facilities at district offices and training for staff. 3. Clear reporting lines and mandatory immediate incident reporting to prevent delays and information gaps. 4. Regular audits and risk assessments, supported by technology such as tamperevident seals and CCTV where feasible. 5. Stronger consequences for procedural breaches to reinforce the seriousness of safeguarding examination materials. 11/15/25, 4:23 PM The Fiji Times https://edition.fijitimes.com.fj/html5/reader/production/default.aspx?pubname=&pubid=e4fad093-33c6-4e8c-8f9d-b19c68c8b31a 2/3 Examinations are not merely paperwork; they determine students’ futures and influence national human capital. Maintaining their integrity must be nonnegotiable. This unfortunate incident should be a wake-up call. Let us treat it not as an embarrassment but as an opportunity to rebuild trust in our examination system through stronger safeguards, transparency, and accountability.
Quality of government SAMU RAILOA NADI
THE effectiveness of the health care system is a good litmus paper test of the overall quality of the Government. Today, the people’s perspectives of government leadership are largely affected by what they learn on social media, and I feel that the Rabuka-led coalition Government aren’t looking favourites any more. There seems to be a general consensus that the coalition has failed to deliver on its lofty campaign promises. Putting aside a bloated government, internal divisions and infighting, a lot of people are offended by the collapsing health care system, the unjustified overseas travels and the soaring cost of living. Should we expect a turnaround as the nation head into the final straight of another election? If so, it has to be much more spectacular and admirable than what we were led to believe three years ago.
Moral compass COLIN DEOKI AUSTRALIA
THE Nazis mastered the dark art of psychological propaganda and psychological warfare. And tragically, it worked. Through fear, deception and relentless manipulation, they turned one of the world’s most educated and cultured societies into blind followers of a man whose vision led humanity into its darkest abyss. It’s a chilling reminder that even the most intelligent people can lose their moral compass when truth is twisted, fear is amplified and conscience is silenced. What’s sobering is that this didn’t happen in an uneducated nation. It happened in Germany, home to philosophers, scientists, composers and theologians who shaped modern civilisation. Yet even there, reason was replaced by rage and compassion by cruelty. The tools may have changed, but the strategy remains the same. Today, propaganda and psychological warfare don’t just march through loudspeakers or parade in public squares. They slide quietly into our phones, our feeds and our minds disguised as “truth,” “patriotism,” or “faith”. And like before, the goal is simple: to control how people think, feel and fear. We see shades of it in every corner of the world — in hate speech, false news and the deliberate sowing of division among people who once stood together. Even here in our islands, we’re not immune. The digital world has become a new battlefield for hearts and minds. And truth itself is under siege. When we stop questioning, when we start believing that might makes right or that deception is just strategy, we begin losing the essence of who we are as a people — kind, spiritual and guided by values that bind us together as one family. Our greatest strength as Pacific people has always been our heart — our compassion, humility and sense of shared humanity. We must guard these values fiercely, because once minds are manipulated and truth becomes negotiable, the soul of a nation is the next casualty. Let history’s warning shot echo across the bows of our Pacific canoe: every generation faces the same moral test — to choose between fear and fairness, deception and discernment, hate and humanity. When truth is silenced, evil thrives. But when courage speaks, humanity endures.
Money talks COLIN DEOKI AUSTRALIA MONEY talks the loudest of all in the dark corners where drugs are sold. For many, the drug trade seems like an easy answer to fast cash, no boss and a way out of hardship. What looks like a ladder to success is, in truth, a trapdoor to ruin. But those who get into the distribution business think they’ll never get caught and they’ll live a life of luxury. The lure is obvious. Some drug dealers can earn in a week what an honest worker might take months or even a year to make. For those struggling with bills, joblessness, or family pressure, the temptation is powerful. It promises instant wealth and respect. But what the lure hides is the heavy price: freedom, family and the future. Behind the glimmer of easy money lies a trail of destruction. Every deal damages someone – the user who becomes dependent, the family that falls apart, the community that loses its safety and soul. Drug profits might fill a wallet for a while, but they drain the spirit of everything around them. In reality, the drug world is a house built on sand and fear. You can’t trust anyone. Violence and betrayal are never far away. Friends become enemies overnight. And once you step in, it’s almost impossible to step out without losing something and sometimes, even your life. Those who boast of success in the trade rarely tell the full story: the sleepless nights, the constant anxiety and the knowledge that one mistake, one phone call, or one police raid could end it all. That’s the bitter truth about “quick money” — it burns through your life faster than you can spend it. So, how do we fight this? That’s the billion-dollar question. It’s not just about tougher laws, though those are necessary. It’s about tackling the reasons people get drawn in to begin with. Poverty. Unemployment. Broken families. Desperation. When hope disappears, temptation grows. We must make sure our young people see a better path and one where effort and honesty still count. Give them skills, mentorship and second chances. Let’s invest in trade training, youth entrepreneurship and counselling programs that build pride and purpose. A job, a dream, a sense of belonging – these are stronger than any promise of fast cash. Communities too must take ownership. When a neighbourhood closes its eyes to drug activity, it silently gives permission for the poison to spread. But when people stand together – parents, elders, teachers, church leaders – they create a wall of protection. A young person surrounded by care, love and guidance is far less likely to fall for the false promises of the trade. Law enforcement has a crucial role, but so do compassion and opportunity. We must hold dealers accountable. But we must also extend a hand to those trying to escape that world. Some are victims themselves, trapped by fear, debt or addiction. They need rehabilitation, not just punishment, to rebuild their lives. Ultimately, every person involved in the drug trade faces the same ending: loss, heartbreak and heartache. Loss of freedom when they’re caught. Loss of peace when they live in hiding. Loss of trust when their loved ones turn away. And often, the loss of life itself. If you’re tempted, stop and think of the faces you’ll leave behind – your children, your parents, your friends. Ask yourself if any amount of money is worth the price of their tears and endless pain and misery. The drug trade may look like an opportunity. But it’s really an illusion – a bright light leading into darkness. Let’s break that illusion with truth, education and unity. Let’s help each other find the kind of wealth that truly lasts: dignity, purpose and peace of mind. Because in the end, the money fades. But the damage remains. And it’s only a matter of time before the trade takes everything — including you.
Seasonal workers RAKESH CHAND SHARMA ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA
REFER to PM Sitiveni Rabuka’s statement in Parliament last week (FT 10/11) where he says and I quote, “annual remittances now exceed $1billion — a lifeline for thousands of people, hundreds of households for Fiji and a pillar of our economic resilience”. While the PM acknowledges monetary gains, his own Assistant Health Minister, Penioni Ravunawa tells us this comes at a cost – “seasonal workers in Australia are treated like Girmitiya” and its associated ills. Creating wealth for families also leaves children without parents, wives without husbands in many cases and putting pressure on other family members resulting in rise in social issues. Simply put, I believe this Coalition Government has failed miserably in creating opportunities of good paying jobs in its three years of existence. Girmitiya moved from India in desperation to escape poverty created by Britishers and ‘Noblemen’ (Zamindars). Today, iTaukei people being landowners and holders of much of the resources are poor and desperate. To compare these people with Girmitiya is a misnomer.
Christian feature SACHIDA NATH NADI
RO Naulu Mataitini’s criticism of Fijian Christianity in a feature article (FT 08/11) is a matter requiring reflection. Faith does not need outside validation. But we all have the proclivity to behave like a Pharisee. Jesus was tough on Pharisees and called them “whitewashed tombs” (Matthew 23:27) The problem with Pharisees was that; they only hanged around with their kind all day. If we live only with people just like us it distorts our vision of the world around us. Instead we go sit with and serve those on the margins of the society — widows, elderly and the orphans. And that is loving our neighbour which is a substantive challenge.
Diabetes action month NEELZ SINGH NELSON, NEW ZEALAND
KNOW more and do more for diabetes at work. World Diabetes Day on November 14 is a great chance to Know Your Risk, Know Your Response by taking a simple test. One of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal is physical activity, especially when guided by exercise physiology. Whether you’re managing diabetes or working to prevent it, physical activity can play a transformative role in your overall health. Why Physical Activity Matters for Diabetes Diabetes affects how your body processes glucose (sugar), which can lead to high blood sugar levels if unmanaged. Regular physical activity helps by: Improving insulin sensitivity: Exercise helps your muscles, use glucose more effectively, less glucose in the bloodstream and more available to use as energy. 2. Lowering blood glucose levels: Physical activity affects blood glucose levels, both during exercise and in the next 48 hours that follow. 3. Supporting weight management: For those with Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, managing weight can be key in improving insulin resistance. 4. Improving heart health: Diabetes can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease; engaging in regular exercise not only improves heart function, blood pressure and cholesterol. 5. Boosting mental well-being: Managing diabetes can be challenging. Regular physical activity is a great way to relieve stress, boost mood, and improve overall well-being. Simple Ways to Get Started Starting with physical activity doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Here are a few ways to incorporate movement into your day: Walking: A brisk 30-minute walk most days of the week can help with blood glucose control and cardiovascular health. 2. Strength training: Muscle strengthening exercises, like bodyweight exercises or light weights, can improve insulin sensitivity and increase muscle mass. 3. Flexibility and balance: Activities like stretching, yoga, or Tai Chi improve flexibility and balance, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing joint health. These activities are also great mood boosters — it is important to find ways to manage stress, clear the mind and boost your energy! 4. Group fitness: Joining a class or group activity can make exercise more enjoyable, adding a social component and accountability. 5. Swimming: This is a great exercise for managing diabetes as it provides a full-body low impact workout that helps improve blood glucose control and enhances cardiovascular health. 6. Sports: Engaging in sports can be beneficial for diabetes management as regular physical activity helps regulate blood glucose levels, improves heart health and enhances insulin sensitivity. Making the Most of World Diabetes Day. Let’s use this World Diabetes Day as a call to action: Let’s move, get active, and empower ourselves to better manage diabetes! Together we move more.
Work ahead of tough Dubai 7s RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU
LAST year, fans basked in glory as the Fiji Airways men’s national 7s side broke a 22-tournament and nine-year drought after beating Spain 19-5 to win the Dubai 7s Cup final at The Sevens Stadium. The last time Fiji had won in Dubai was back in 2015. The 28-17 victory over England was sensational, as the flamboyant Fijians blew away Simon Amor’s side in the first half after falling behind to an early Tom Bowen try. Fiji led 28-7 after breathtaking tries from Savenaca Rawaca, Jasa Veremalua, Jerry Tuwai and Isake Katonibau. Our opponents rallied with late second half tries through Phil Burgess and a second score for Bowen, but it was not enough as Fiji tasted victory. That was Ben Ryan’s second victory in Dubai as coach and Osea Kolinisau’s first victory as captain. Fiji’s first win in Dubai was in 2013 when the glorious Flying Fijians hammered South Africa 29-17 in the Cup final. In the semi-final, Fiji thrashed the All Blacks 44-0. The 7s game is getting harder. Tournaments are difficult to win and with only two pools and eight teams in Dubai, there are no easy games. This year in Dubai, we will face giants Argentina, South Africa and France. If we want to start the 2025/26 HSBC SVNS WRSS, we must repeat last year’s performance. In pool play, the boys beat Spain 21- 15, the USA 42-20 and the All Blacks 7s 21-12. In the quarter-final, Fiji survived France’s onslaught with a late try to win 19-17, and in the semi-final, Fiji thrashed Argentina 43-21. The final was a bruising battle. Kolinisau returned to Dubai as coach and Sevuloni Mocenacagi was the lone survivor from the 2015 win. Fijian fans were under relentless pressure as Spain gave Fiji a run for their money in the first half, scoring the first try of the match from Pol Pla. Captain Jeremaia Matana, Filipe Sauturaga, and Ilikimi Vunaki scored Fiji’s tries, while Sauturaga was named the player of the match. Kolinisau has work on his plate. Communication, winning restarts, taking conversions, giving away penalties, missed tackles and teamwork must be a top priority. It’s important that we start with a bang! Team work will take us through.
Tyres and all DAVID SUSHIL LAL LAUTOKA
TYRES and rims together with tree branches have accumulated in a massive pile within the past few years in a tyre repair yard at Vitogo Parade. A breeding ground for mosquitoes, rats, cockroaches and bugs, the yard also portrays an ugly picture of the main street in the city. The place must be urgently inspected by Lautoka City Council especially after nothing was cleared during the recent cleanup campaign.
Road safety TOMASI BOGINISO LIVERPOOL, NSW, AUSTRALIA
WHAT is happening on our roads? It seems we have road accidents on a daily basis. All types of vehicles are at risk and drivers of all races are involved. Driving in Fiji nowadays you controlling your own vehicle is not a concern, it’s drivers of other vehicles that you are more concerned about, of what state they are in or how careless they could be. To solve the problem is to implement higher fines for careless driving, not wearing seat belts, trying to beat red lights and speeding to name a few. Vehicles need to pass tests to be approved to be allowed on to our roads. Driving licences have to be issued after a series of intensive driving tests. There maybe other ways but our Government needs to look into these issues very seriously.
Fiji’s image SAMU SILATOLU NAKASI
LENORA Qereqeretabua, Assistant Minister Foreign Affairs, explained the tarnishing of Fiji’s image overseas by PALM workers. Isn’t she so concerned about Fiji? However, in the same token, isn’t the Coalition Government staining Fiji’s image? That is, from within and onto the world scene. Fiji, in my view, has become a reflection of Kenya, Nigeria, Liberia, Bangladesh, PNG, to name a few. The way the world should be, is today, the way no country is supposed to be. The ‘love’ for Fiji is just lip service. Even calling Fiji “home”, because no one “destroys” his own home, but elevates it. Isn’t it deeply disappointing? Those “bad eggs” were given opportunities, in my view, to elevate their welfare in Australia. Just as the Coalition Government was entrusted, to transform the Fiji peoples’ welfare. It is really sad when we explicitly study beyond our own shores, rather than within. Fiji’s “root” image is simply, in my opinion, the governing of its people. It begins at what we call Fiji, home.
Free lunch AJAI KUMAR
THE Coalition Government seems to be making a habit of sending large contingent of people to COP events with the excuse that most delegates are sponsored and there is no cost to the taxpayers. May I remind the present Environment Minister Hon Mosese Bulitavu, and he ought to know, that there is no such thing as a free lunch. The strings would come later. Pretending that there are no strings attached is akin to the fish that only sees the free lunch and not the hook and eventually end up in the frying pen. Environment issue is a dull subject and I can bet that if the COP is held in Fiji most people who would be attending this year will not attend. Changes to the environment is a natural phenomenon and human beings do not have any capacity to mitigate the might of nature. So I am asking the Government to stop all the gade gade trips and get real, stay at home and do some work.
New Nadawa subdivision neglect SATISH NAKCHED SUVA
THIS is to bring to the attention of the Nasinu Town Council of the issue regarding the persistent issue of overgrown shrubs obstructing public footpaths in the newly developed commercial and residence lots in Nadawa. The constructions of the new building are in progress with some commercial business innovation taking place in the area. The rate payers find it unacceptable that essential services such as footpath clearing are being overlooked. Overgrown shrubs and vegetation have made pedestrian access difficult and hazardous, especially for the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities. This neglect not only compromises public safety but also undermines the council’s responsibility to uphold basic infrastructure standards. The community has a reasonable expectation that the rates paid will be used to maintain public amenities. The lack of action on this matter raises serious questions about service delivery and accountability. Taking town rates from the property owners and not delivering the service is similar to obtaining money by false pretense. Most of the concrete footpath are not visible and there are shrubs that are more than 10 feet high and may have taken years to grow to that stage. Most of the concrete footpath are not visible and there are shrubs that are more than 10 feet high and may have taken years to grow to that stage. The overgrown weeds have weaken the footpath through root intrusion that has grew into cracks and joints in the concrete and the invasion over time is causing structural breakdown.
Painful hurt! COLIN DEOKI AUSTRALIA
WE nurse it. We nurture it. We protect it. We justify it. Then, without realising it, we become its victim. We play it over and over again in our mind in movie loops. What is it? Our most painful hurt – the deep emotional wound that time alone cannot erase or heal. Why do we do this to ourselves? Because, strangely enough, holding on to pain gives us a kind of distorted comfort – a familiar ache that reminds us of what once was. Perhaps it’s a form of self-punishment. Or maybe it’s a cry for recognition and for someone to finally understand how deeply we were hurt. Some call it the martyr syndrome; others say it’s the unfinished story that keeps replaying because we never truly found closure. But how do you get closure from a wound that cuts so deep? How do you let go of a betrayal, a rejection, or a heartbreak that still echoes in your heart years later? The truth is, we often carry old pain because, in some strange way, it makes us feel connected to the person or situation that caused it. It becomes part of our identity. Without realising it, we begin to live with the wound, even as the wound itself. We talk about it, think about it and weave it into our life’s story as if healing means losing a part of ourselves. Yet healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means remembering differently. It means acknowledging that what happened was real and that it hurt but refusing to let it define who we are today. Healing’s not about erasing the memory; it’s about taking away its power to control our emotions, our peace, our identity and our wellbeing. So how do we begin to heal and finally let go and find closure? We start by facing the pain, not fleeing from it. We stop pretending we’re over it when we’re not. We allow ourselves to grieve, to cry, to talk, to unpack its roots – not in circles, but toward a place of release. We forgive not because the other person deserves it, but because we deserve peace and closure from it. True healing begins when we no longer seek revenge, justification or understanding from others but find meaning within the deepest part of ourselves. When we stop asking, “Why did this happen to me?” and instead begin to ask, “What can I learn from this?” For each of us, the journey is different. Some find healing through prayer, therapy or meditation. Others through writing, music or nature. And some, simply through time and acceptance. But one truth remains universal – wounds heal only when exposed to light. So maybe today is the day to loosen your grip on the past. To stop being the guardian of your own pain. To give yourself permission to heal. And to forgive yourself for carrying this painful burden. Because when we finally let go of what hurt us, we make space for what can heal us and rediscover the freedom, peace and strength that were always waiting within. There’s nothing to gain from holding onto pain. Will you do this one liberating thing for yourself today? Because freedom is calling you to lay the past to rest so you can move onto your future. A future filled with joy, happiness and peace. Make room for it. Because, God knows, you deserve it.
Cashless system NISHANT SINGH LAUTOKA
THE introduction of a cashless payment system within Fiji’s taxi industry, spearheaded by Westpac, represents a commendable and progressive initiative. This development will undoubtedly enhance convenience for passengers who prefer the ease of paying via Visa Debit or Credit cards, ensuring seamless and efficient transactions for both customers and drivers. I hope that all taxi operators will embrace this transition as Fiji moves in step with the global shift toward a cashless society. Furthermore, this initiative has the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of violent robberies and assaults on taxi drivers, which have risen to alarming levels in recent years. With less cash being carried, drivers will be less vulnerable to theft, thereby improving their overall safety and peace of mind. Nevertheless, while the removal of cash may deter such crimes, the threat of carjacking remains a serious concern that warrants continued attention and preventive measures. Vinaka again Westpac!
Adult sentences VIKEL LAL MAKOI ST 2, NASINU
THE Victorian government in Australia will seek to implement adult jail sentences for children aged 14 and over who commit serious violent crimes. Under the proposed changes, the maximum jail sentence will be raised from three years to life in the case of aggravated home invasions and aggravated carjacking by young offenders. Under current laws, the maximum jail sentence that can be imposed in the Children’s Court for any offence is three years. However, the County Court, which hears adult cases, can impose jail sentences of up to 25 years for violent crimes such as aggravated home invasions or aggravated carjackings. The planned changes mean children who commit the following crimes will face adult jail sentences:
-Aggravated home invasion, Home invasion. Intentionally causing injury in circumstances of gross violence (includes machete crime), , ecklessly causing injury in circumstances of gross violence (includes machete crime), Aggravated carjacking. Carjacking, Aggravated burglary (serious and repeated), Armed robbery (serious and repeated) Under the plan, some teenagers who commit aggravated home invasions face tougher penalties than the 25-year maximum term for rape and manslaughter sentences. Humble plea to our Government is to also take this pro active measure to revise its laws similar to that of Victoria as a lot of youths fall in the same age category here.
Illegal road humps and barriers INDAR DEO BISUN SAKOCA HEIGHTS, TAMAVUA
I WRITE to express a growing concern regarding the misuse of improved road infrastructure in communities such as Koronivia and Sakoca. For many years, residents in Koronivia, Nausori had to endure poor road conditions, mostly gravel surfaces that were difficult to maintain and unsafe for daily commuters. The recent tar-sealing works have been a major relief, greatly improving accessibility for all types of vehicles. The same positive progress is now being seen in Sakoca Stage 1 and 2, where the Ministry of Housing and the Fijian Government are actively developing the area with upgraded amenities and improved road access. However, it is unfortunate that despite these significant improvements, some members of the public are now erecting obstacles on these very roads. Reports of thick ropes being tied across access roads and makeshift road humps being created from gravel or other materials are extremely concerning. These acts not only undermine the purpose of the upgraded roads but also pose serious safety risks to motorists, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles. Good road infrastructure is meant to support safe and efficient movement for everyone. When individuals take it upon themselves to restrict or alter road access, it creates hazards and disrupts the community as a whole. If there are speeding concerns or safety issues, the appropriate authorities such as the Fiji Roads Authority and the Police are available to address these matters lawfully. I kindly urge community members to respect the public infrastructure provided for their benefit and to work with relevant authorities instead of resorting to unsafe and illegal measures. Let us protect and value the improvements made in our communities so that everyone can move safely and confidently.
Digital family BHAGWANJI BHINDI LAUCALA BEACH ESTATE, NASINU
DIGITAL family, what an evolution we have created
Connections once distant now instantly translated
Families eat together but minds are locked inside mobile phones Voices fade to whispers while notifications set the tones
The warmth of shared meals turns cold in digital zones
As laughter is replaced by typing sounds and emoji clones
Hearts sit close, yet wander far across invisible data stones
Seeking validation from strangers while ignoring familiar tones
Let screens rest awhile, let love reclaim its thrones
For true connection blooms when we speak in heartfelt tones
Let the table be a sanctuary where genuine affection is shown
Where love replaces screens, and togetherness is fully grown
We post to Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook when someone is talking to us
The moment in front is fading, turning delicate like dust
Let’s lift our eyes a little, let presence be our guide
For the world feels more alive when we are truly by someone’s side
We take photos and share it instead of helping in an accident Hearts numb, eyes cold, compassion becomes absent
A life cries for aid, yet we scroll, indifferent
We measure disaster by how viral it went
We eat food without savouring taste, with minds lost in cyber space Eyes fixed on glowing screens, as reality we erase
Conversations fade to silence, while fingers scroll and swipe
And the meal before the soul becomes a memory gone trite
We fail to talk to someone in front of us but chat freely all the time
Our voices fade in silence while our thumbs create the rhyme
Parenting is reduced to addicting kids to cell phones While real bonds with love and care are left alone
Children have lost direction and morals in a digital world
Their innocent minds by flashy screens unfurled
Their dreams are shaped by a virtual stage
While real wisdom hides like ink on a forgotten page
Connections are fleeting, lost in a digital haze True words replaced by fleeting praise
Time is never enough in cyber space
We’re trapped in feeds, lost in the race
Scrolling through lives that aren’t our own Chasing illusions on screens we’ve known Minutes turn to hours, silently flown
While the real world waits, untouched, alone.
Biased questions DONALD SINGH SUVA
FTUC accusing the parliamentary committee of bias and deliberate delays on labour law reforms probably suggests that the parliamentary committee is actually doing a proper job. Until now what I had been reading left the impression that the process was lopsided. The Opposition might want to consider responding to assumptions that they are in charge. Interesting indeed.
Obese people RAJEND NAIDU SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
OBESE people could be denied visas to US (news.com.au / FT13/11 ). Maybe my visa ban to US will be lifted because I am not obese and am fit and healthy at age 70!
Billboard message JIOJI O. TORONIBAU NAVETAU, TUNULOA
AFTER a long tedious bus trip from my village to Labasa, I saw billboards nicely engraved with, ‘Yadrayadravaki, Accountability’ etc. Well the elements had picked up quickly hence the capacity to fade into oblivion. Now, is there any usefulness or are they kept as decorations for the birds and grazing cows and horses?
$200 assistance NARAYAN REDDY LAUTOKA
THE Government is continuing with the $200 help towards school children again this year and many families will benefit. A study must be done on the free education program compared to the time when parents used to pay for their children’s education, to find out which is more beneficial to the children. What I mean to say is that with free education, many children don’t bother to get the best education and many parents neglect their children because their money is not used. Free comes at a huge cost?
Acting PM RAJEND NAIDU SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
I BELIEVE many Fijians would be very disappointed that Lynda Tabuya was not chosen to be the Acting PM while PM Rabuka is in Japan doing whatever he’s doing. She is so highly qualified for the apex position. And is seen by many as the chosen one in the Rabuka gang in government. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam can vouch for that I am pretty sure.
Girmitiya comparison JAN NISSAR SYDNEY NSW, AUSTRALIA
GIRMITYA were made of steel. To compare girmitya to the PALM workers in Australia today is an insult to girmitya and their descendants. I can assure whichever minister who made this comparison, if he were to work in Australia, he would not last five minutes. You wouldn’t even be able to understand an Australian. You will pack up and leave in an airconditioned plane with your entitlements. Girmitya did not have that luxury. I suggest you put your brains into gear first before you open your mouth. I find this statement from the minister is one from an entitled person. Fiji is full of entitled people.
$200 help AMINISITAI TORA NADERA, NASINU
GOOD decision by Ministry of Education to hold back the $200 student assistance for 2026 until closer to school start. Quite rightly so, funds for students, not holidays.
Diet of motivation FLOYD ROBINSON MICRONESIA
LIKE wounded lions still recovering from defeats of last week, France and the Flying Fijians are desperate for victory this weekend. The French have an upper hand with an excellent kicker and powerful loose forwards who are settling for nothing less than disrupting the ability of our frontrowers to move forward. For our Flying Fijians, can they maintain discipline until the final whistle? Will they eradicate the casual attitude which appears like a trade mark of our Fijian Drua team? There are many Drua players in the Flying Fijians team. Let’s rally behind our Flying Fijians, remaining positive, that they will have consumed a diet of motivation and self belief earlier this week.
Chaos comments DONALD SINGH SUVA
FRENCH rugby attack coach Patrick Arlettaz has reportedly said that the Flying Fijians thrive on chaos. Patrick is obviously playing mind games before the weekend game. See, Patrick, our Flying Fijians are superstars and they can beat any team, in the first half. Chaos sets in some 10 minutes into the second half and that’s where the problem starts for us, and we definitely don’t thrive on the cards situation. We only thrive on chaos in the sevens game, and more now maybe as we have the ‘Oscar’. Fortunately for Patrick, I don’t know French, otherwise I would have played some chaotic mind games with him. I only know one French word: the word written in front of Total service stations, and I can’t even pronounce it. Too chaotic, the language.
Streetlight repairs AJAI KUMAR WAQADRA, NADI
I sympathise with Anthony Sahai (FT 13/11) for the streetlight outages that he and others are experiencing on the forgotten island. Actually the problem is not confined to Levuka, but everywhere. Some bright spark in the present government thought that offloading streetlight repairs to the FRA would solve the problems but this entity (FRA) is a failure in itself since it is not able to look after its core function of roads maintenance, so how can it be expected to undertake street light repairs. True that it has outsourced this function but the overall responsibility still rests with FRA. Unlike previous years, the current contractors are not proactively attending to the lights not until you have called them at least 10 times. So my advice to brother Sahai is to keep pushing. You also already have road and mortuary issues to deal with.
Response to Sydney PECELI ALISTIR WAITOLU, NAITASIRI
I WISH to offer a critical yet respectful response to Rajend Naidu’s letter of Sydney, Australia (FT 12/11) regarding the size of the current government. While over 40 ministers may seem costly, a larger Cabinet is far preferable to the tight, centralised control we saw under the last regime. During Bainimarama’s and Sayed-Khaiyum’s rule, power was concentrated in a few hands, media freedom was restricted, and dissent punished. Grants, loans, and subsidies were often used to secure loyalty rather than genuinely help citizens. Infrastructure projects were showcased, yet ordinary people frequently bore the cost. Talking from experience, for example, in September 2022, more than 30 households were severely affected by a pipeline project carried out with total disregard for prior consultation with landowners, disrupting water sources and natural resources (ref FT Sept 2022), which was a total disregard of our Fiji National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, and also our Constitution. Efficiency and accountability are important, but so are inclusion, consultation, and shared leadership. Fiji’s democracy, though sometimes noisy and expensive, is far healthier than the silence and control of the past.
Time with loved ones RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM NADAWA, NASINU
VODAFONE Sugar Festival contestant Michelle Lambert had a timely message (FT: 14/11) for readers — spend valuable time with loved ones. Lambert, who took a week to prepare her traditional Fijian attire, is advocating quality family time so that parents understand their children, know them better and know what they are doing. Being excited to be a queen contestant, Lambert believes that such festivals empower young women who can use the festival to showcase and use their talents and gain confidence. With the festivities taking place and now that we are nearing holidays, extra responsibility falls on the plate of the parents and guardians. Child welfare, safety and dignity is paramount, and every step must be taken to keep our children, especially young girls, safe from predators. The time, that we spend with our loved ones, is priceless and precious. Let’s make memories from the moments!
