Major accidents
It seems major accidents are the order of the day on our roads. I have noted these accidents involving heavy goods vehicles happening within a span of two weeks. If I am not wrong, the first one occurred in Naruwai, Bua, second one off road at Matanipusi Hill and the latest one in Semo, Nadroga. One should note if an unexpected incident/accident happens anywhere in Fiji, it will spread around to other divisions before it stops. This goes for fatal house fires, drowning cases, fatal domestic incidents etc. Let’s be careful at all times people. Juki Fong Chew Nadawa, Nasinu
Road accidents
What’s going on our roads? Everyday I am reading about accidents on the roads and big ones involving trucks, buses and commercial vehicles. Are our drivers really qualified to be on the roads or are they being given ample training to be in control of a vehicle? Just having cameras on the roads doesn’t seem to be working, is it? This nonsense needs to be stopped as soon as possible. Rikash Deo Auckland, New Zealand
What national disgrace?
According to Peceli Alistir it was perfectly alright for the Rabuka coalition to have three deputy prime ministers (FT30/10). What about having virtually everyone in government as minister or assistant minister and then bringing in turncoat MPs from the previous ruling party also as ministers or assistant ministers? That wasn’t about serving the best national interest and serving the people, was it? It is more like scr@wing the people to stay in power. That is a national disgrace! Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
Reconciliation talks
Former minister for youth and sports Rajesh Singh’s reconciliation talk sessions as per The Fiji Times news (27/10) “Coup victim wants immunity clause out”, reminds us of those historical coups. We Fijians in Fiji’s plural society, with united front, are always prepared to move forward for the wellbeing of our future generations. The only way is forgive, forget and reconcile for a better Fiji tomorrow. Vinaka! Dhanbad! Shukriya! Vinaka Rajesh for inspiring words that touches our hearts, “no kaidia, no kaiviti or kailoma”. We all are one. Rerevaka na kalou ka doka na tui – God bless us all. “Reconciliation and forgiveness can actually help all of us more in a healthier, happier way.” – Chesa Boudin. Tahir Ali Hamilton, New Zealand
Student welfare
I write to express my concern regarding the recent announcement by the Gujarat Education Society of Fiji about the introduction of a Student Welfare Levy of $250 per student per year at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School, effective from 2026. This decision is deeply worrying, as it contradicts the Government’s long-standing commitment to providing free education for all Fijian children — a policy that has helped thousands of families afford schooling and given every child, regardless of background, a fair chance at success. Many families in Fiji are already struggling with the rising cost of living, including food, transport, rent, and other basic necessities. Adding a compulsory school levy will put further financial pressure on low- and middle-income households. This could lead to increased school dropouts, especially among students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Education should never become a privilege accessible only to those who can afford it. It is understandable that schools face rising operational costs due to inflation and maintenance needs. However, such challenges should be addressed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, not through additional fees imposed on parents. The Government must take responsibility to ensure that schools are adequately funded, so that no child’s education is interrupted due to financial hardship. Education is the backbone of our nation’s progress. We cannot afford to see our young people denied opportunities because of an extra $250 fee. I urge the relevant authorities to review this situation urgently and find a fair solution that upholds the true spirit of free and inclusive education in Fiji. Bishal Abhinesh Jattan Koronivia Rd.
Students at the bus station
Every afternoon at the main bus station in our Capital City, students crowd into shelters that are far too small for them. On fine days it is uncomfortable enough, and on rainy days the situation becomes even worse, with congestion and overcrowding making the wait unpleasant and unsafe. At an age of exploration, students can be restless and sometimes aimless. I have even witnessed fist fighting among some students, which shows the need to channel their energy positively. Many leave school around 2.30pm, but do not catch their buses until 4.30pm, leaving them idle for hours. While leaders such as Selina Kuruleca, Shairana Ali, and Chantelle Khan have been vocal about ending corporal punishment, I believe they could also advocate for constructive engagement — initiatives that keep students meaningfully occupied. Building a library, gymnasium, or recreational area near bus stations, encouraging open-air activities, and aligning bus schedules with student times with bus companies, could help ease congestion and promote discipline in positive ways among our future generations. Peceli Alistir Waitolu, Naitasiri
Stepping aside
Hon Manoa Kamikamica and Hon Professor Biman Prasad stepped aside based on their charges by FICAC. They are determined to clear their names and be back on track. Recently a lot has happened in our beloved country, however, we wish you both the best. Kirti Patel Lautoka
My message
As a Catholic, a simple Christian message to Pastor Kartik Naidu. Love thy neighbour, not judge thy neighbour. Sanya Catherine Gain Lami
A week in politics
One week is a very long time in politics. One day you drive around in flashy black cars with an entourage and flashing lights and the next day it is all over — in a flash. And the lesson is, you ask? Well, all those who still drive around in flashy black cars with an entourage better enjoy while you can. You never know how long it will all last. Jan Nissar Sydney, Australia
Legal experts
I understand Fiji’s brains trust in legal matters are meeting in Nadi. Is it too late to insert into your agenda the plight of betrayed pre-2011 pensioners’ plight which has enjoyed more than enough print media publicity since the demise of the FijiFirst government and party two years ago. Bainimarama’s FNPF Decree continues to cause us, senior retirees, immense hardship. This was robbery. Can this item be your little act of charity for a just cause, please? We are a dying breed of women and men who served Fiji, with distinction, pre and post Fiji’s independence from our Colonial masters, Great Britain. Ronnie Chang Martintar, Nadi
Derogatory remarks
I think that man needs medical attention. Mohammed Imraz Janif Natabua, Lautoka
Fund raising
The exit of the two deputy prime ministers from the Rabuka gang in government means there will be no more special fund raising dinner events in the Fijian diaspora for them. Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
GCC members
The PM said that some members of the GCC will travel to England to meet King Charles. In my opinion this is a total waste of taxpayers’ money. What benefits will the taxpayers get from this meeting I suppose basically nothing. This is just a fully-funded holiday to please the chiefs in preparations for the election next year. Just saying. Josefa Tuitubou Lautoka
Rugby, GCC and cemetery
Journey of unity, belief and resilience!
Thumbs up, Anasilini Natoga, for highlighting Malolo’s rise in provincial rugby through your sports piece titled ‘Historic run’ (FT: 30/10)! Indeed, history will be made tomorrow when Malolo runs onto the field for the first time in the prestigious Skipper Cup final, going head-to-head against Fiji’s rugby powerhouse Naitasiri which stands favourites to keep both silverware in their cabinet. Malolo has had a fairy-tale run this season and could create the biggest upset in Fiji’s provincial rugby grand finale. When the heart is determined, it can achieve great things, and this adage is proving true for Malolo. I’m glad that Malolo is preparing well for the final, and the support from the vanua has been overwhelming, motivating the players to push harder each week. Natoga shared that Malolo’s journey to the final was built on unity, belief, and resilience and despite being newcomers to the Skipper Cup top tier, the team’s performance has proven it deserves a place among the elite. Malolo’s fighting character and positive attitude have brought the side this far. The boys are not only representing their island and their people, but they are inspiring the next generation of players. All the best Malolo! I’d love the newcomers to topple Naitasiri! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Royal meeting
Our good Prime Minister “Stee” has revealed that a delegation from the “prestigious” Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) will soon travel to England to meet King Charles (FT 30/10). That’s awesome! Fiji’s century-old chiefly institution will finally rub shoulders with royalty; the same monarchy once regarded as the face of colonial suppression years ago. The stated purpose of this visit, I believe, is to “reinforce the historical relationship” between Fiji and the British monarchy. Not too long ago, the GCC also made a “historic” trip to communist China to learn about poverty alleviation and rural development strategies, supposedly to uplift the iTaukei communities facing social and community barriers back home. One wonders how that’s working out. From where most of us stand, not much seems to have transformed. Many indigenous Fijians continue to face abject poverty, unemployment, and growing societal challenges. Judging by the country’s prison population, their involvement in criminal activity also seems to be escalating by the day. But I am positive that the upcoming UK trip will be another roaring success. There will be the usual feasting, loads of free chow and drinks, and endless speeches about “strengthening ties”. After all, it’s important work, someone’s got to represent us at these all-expenses-paid cultural picnics. So, to the Great Council of Chiefs, bon voyage! May your “important” meeting with his majesty be as meaningful to the iTaukei as your China adventure was. Nishant Singh Lautoka
Burial grounds and nightclubs
It is disturbing to see many young people treating our cemeteries and cremation sites as drinking spots. What should be places of peace and prayer are now being turned into nightclubs after dark. The Raiwaqa, Navua Crematorium Committee has raised serious concerns about this growing problem. Founding member Chaitanya Lakshman revealed that people regularly gather at the Raiwaqa Cemetery to drink, vandalise, and disturb the sacred ground shared by Christians, Muslims, and Hindus. “Every weekend, our crematorium and cemetery turn into a nightclub,” he said. This behaviour is shameful. It disrespects the dead and the families who visit to pay their respects. A cemetery is not a place for entertainment or alcohol, it is a place for remembrance and reflection. When we lose respect for such spaces, we lose part of our moral compass as a society. Authorities must act. The proposed Burial and Cremation (Amendment) Bill 2025 should include tougher penalties for trespassing, vandalism, and public drinking in burial grounds. Offenders should face consequences that promote awareness and community service, not just fines or imprisonment. At the same time, communities must take responsibility. Faith groups, youth clubs, and local committees can help monitor and maintain these areas, ensuring they remain places of dignity. Parents also need to guide their children; respect begins at home. Our burial grounds represent our shared humanity. They deserve our protection, not our neglect. Let’s not wait until another weekend of drinking and disorder shames us again. Indar Deo Bisun Sakoca Heights, Tamavua
