The principles of Prophet Mohammad
Prophet Mohammad’s birthday was celebrated yesterday. It is important to reflect on his principles. Prophet Mohammad was the perfect role model for us, as he demonstrated high ethical standards. He was an exemplary figure who showed honesty, consistency, compassion, empathy, humility, and resourcefulness throughout his lifetime. His inspiring example teaches us more than just wisdom. It inspires us to practice these virtues in our daily lives and pursue a life of virtue and integrity to live with purpose and honour. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka urged unity and called for compassion, humility and peace. The Muslim community has contributed tremendously towards Fiji’s economic development, and we must respect and value their hard work and commitment. Hatred aside, it’s time for goodwill and love! Fiji’s cultural and religious diversity is rich. We are so blessed to live in a multi-racial country where we share each other’s religion and culture. Let’s embrace the spirit of harmony in our workplaces and country. RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Nadawa, Nasinu
Political promise
In the lead up to the 2022 General Elections, respective parties had documented as part of their manifesto that the retirement age will move from 55 to 60 years. Now when the dust has settled and when in the driving seat, the promise has slightly changed because of various explanations best known to them Always be careful of the political promise as it could backfire on the way forward. The people are no longer sleeping but are mindful and observant of every political promise made. While some institutions have been allowed to retire at 60, some still remain at 55. Only some can, some cannot can. Juki Fong Chew Nadawa, Nasinu
Fiji’s silent epidemic
It is sad and alarming to read that Fiji has recorded 489 suicides and 446 attempted suicides in the past five years, figures Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran says highlight the country’s urgent mental health crisis. If you believe in Creation, you will know that God the Father created human beings to live forever but our parents Adam and Eve chose death by accepting the lies of the devil. Every Christmas, the world is reminded that God the Father allowed His Son, the Christ or Messiah to be born through a virgin, live a sinless life and die to redeem humanity of our sin. Every Good Friday and Easter weekend, the world is reminded that God our Heavenly Father gave His only begotten Son, to redeem humanity by being the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. His resurrection on Sunday means all of us have eternal life, if we by faith accept Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to transform our character and follow and do God’s will. God’s intention for humanity to live forever has not changed and He has provided the way for all of us sinners to live forever. Therefore, God has warned all of us that those who ignore His grace and salvation and commit suicide will be cursed and not forgiven. To all who are contemplating suicide, remember God the Father wants you to live forever and He sent Christ His Son to be our Lord and Saviour and the Holy Spirit to empower us to fight against the evil forces working hard for us to commit suicide. By faith, call out to Christ, “Lord help me, you have promised, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — (Matt. 11:28). His will has not changed. He wants all of us to have eternal life. Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa Tacirua
Israel mission
Fiji’s first resident mission in Israel (FT 6/9/25). How long does Fiji have to wait for such a strategic diplomatic move? Regarding our “donkey years” water supply issue, I believe Israel’s global expertise in effective water management strategies should be reckoned with. In fact, as Israel’s international collaboration, it helped China combat water leaks and pollution. With eight million people, minimal natural water resources, approximately 60 per cent desert, 530,000 acres farmland, abundance in reticulated supply and no water carting. How does it do that? Fiji, not even one million population, has excessive natural water resources, has been engaging global and professional expertise for decades, but “water carting” has increased continually. What has been the issue? Is it not a basic necessity? Water problems, in my opinion, are a “proxy” for bad governance. Samu Silatolu Nakasi, Nausori
Fiji prepares for Canada
After coming from behind to beat Manu Samoa 29-15 at the Rotorua International Stadium in what was a tough battle, the Fiji Water Flying Fijians must now prepare for Canada and iron out mistakes and weaknesses that highlighted an unimpressive win. Fiji beat the Ikale Tahi 32-10 in Suva, and the win against Manu Samoa was far from convincing. Manu Samoa took us head on, and we must count our lucky stars that they missed those try-scoring opportunities. The Flying Fijians face Canada who beat the USA 34-20 but lost to the Brave Blossoms, who also beat the USA 47-21, 57-15. The Brave Blossoms look the team to beat. They are hungry to avenge last year’s 41-17 loss in the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup final at the Hanazono Rugby Stadium in front of their fans. The Flying Fijians put in a dominant and solid second-half performance to silence the home crowd. Sensational Vuate Karawalevu (twice), the burning train, Ponipate Loganimasi (twice), and fiery forward Albert Tuisue each crossed the whitewash as the Flying Fijians surged to a well-deserved team victory. Stakes are high, considering Fiji’s narrow loss to the Wallabies 21-18 in Australia and the scintillating victory over Gregor Townsends Bravehearts 29-14 in Suva. The boys need to be clinical and devastating. Toso Viti! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa,Nasinu
Feast of the Tabernacle
The next Feast of the Tabernacle will be held from October 6 to October 14, 2025. It is less than a month away. Is there another “commercial arrangement” being made for a charter flight for pilgrims to the Promised Land. It appears that we all first heard of the Feast of the Tabernacle in October, 2023, and we have never heard of it since. Jan Nissar Sydney, Australia
Fiji soccer
How can Fiji FA improve soccer in Fiji? Why have the standards declined? Have you got any plans at all? Asish Vinay Prasad Raiwasa, Suva
Thank you
While The Fiji Times‘ earlier article had a lot of conflicting and confusing information about the retirement age, it had initially caused a lot of anxiety to some nearing the 55 mark. Thanks to The Fiji Times for publishing the same as per confirmation from FNPF that the eligibility mark still remains at 55. Juki Fong Chew Nadawa, Nasinu
An alternative
It is the same story all over again. Relating to politics, discussions on an alternative option are high. Do you disagree? Mohammed Imraz Janif Natabua, Lautoka
PM Modi’s silence
PM Modi’s silence despite all the gibes and barbs by US, Canada, UK and needling by China and Pakistan is a symbol of how astute and stoical he is as a global leader. Before the SCO Summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping had written a letter to Indian President Dropati Murmu of normalising relations to jointly face the US’ hegemony and tariffs. At least, a war between India and China has been averted for some years. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Accessibility in public buses
I wish to highlight the challenge many passengers face because of the high steps on public buses. Elderly citizens, children, and people with disabilities often struggle to board safely. Public transport should be inclusive and accessible to all. I kindly urge the authorities and bus operators to introduce buses with lower steps or proper handrails. These improvements would ensure a safer, fairer, and more user-friendly transport system. Aditi Pranjal Deo Suva
Soccer and rugby
Shameful conduct
Fiji played Hong Kong in the King’s Cup in Thailand last Saturday and within 22 minutes two of our players, including the captain, were sent off for elbowing. The two-man deficit crippled the team and Fiji went on to suffer a humiliating 8-0 defeat. Even a one-man deficit is decisive in football. With two players gone, the game was over before it had even begun. Football is a beautiful game. It is built on skill, discipline and respect. It is not a place for violence. What unfolded on the field was disgraceful. Two of our most senior players were intent on hurting their opponents rather than playing football. Most shameful of all, the captain himself was the first to be sent off. A captain is supposed to inspire and set standards, not embarrass his team and country. These players did not only let down their team and teammates. They humiliated Fiji on the international stage. They showed the world that Fiji resorts to dirty play when it cannot match the technical caliber of its opponents. Instead of playing football, they tried to intimidate through brutality. The Hong Kong players came to play a game of football with Fiji, not to be brutalised. The real problem is that this kind of behaviour is tolerated in our domestic football. Referees often ignore violent play and by doing so they normalise it. In the recent Labasa versus Ba match at the BOG pool stage, a Ba forwards player, who has since been drafted into the national team, openly targeted a Labasa defender with elbows and even threw punches. The referee did not sanction him for the violent conduct which warranted nothing sort of a send-off. When such thuggery is accepted at home, it is no surprise it appears in international matches. If Fiji is to be respected in football, this culture of hooliganism must end. Our players need education on what the game truly represents: skill, teamwork and respect. And our referees must be rigorously trained to detect and punish violence consistently, as was done by the referee in the Hong Kong match. Only then will Fiji be known not for brutality, but for playing the beautiful game as it was meant to be played. Nilesh Lal Nakasi, Nausori
PNC semi-finals
Our Flying Fijians’ win against Samoa on Saturday at Rotorua, New Zealand has placed Fiji on top of Pool A, Tonga at second and Samoa third. In Pool B, Japan like Fiji has been unbeaten and tops the pool, with Canada at second and USA third. On Monday 15, September 2025, Samoa will play USA for the 5th place playoff at 6.35am, followed by the first semi-final between Tonga and Japan at 9.35am, before our Flying Fijians take on Canada in the second semi final at 12.35pm. From the performances so far, we can all predict that Japan and Fiji will battle in the finals for the Pacific Nations Cup in 2025. For us die hard Fiji rugby fans, we all will be cheering, Go Flying Fijians, go! Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa Tacirua
