Culture of Abuse

Robert Michael Gepp, Tavarau, Ba

I want to compliment Nemani Delaibatiki for his analysis yesterday in the Fiji Sun on “Culture of Abuse”. The issue was mentioned in the Budget Speech by the Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

The analysis was thoughtful and well written. My fear though is that the people that it needs to reach will not either read it or be inclined to change their habits.

I live, facing the sea, at Tavarau, Ba, and witnessed Cyclone Winston and all of its incredible power. There was certainly massive damage especially to properties that had not been built to cyclone standards.

The Government and other agencies were quick to respond. It was also gratifying to see, within a few days, an endless stream of private cars heading past my place loaded up with tools and food, on their way to Rakiraki where the worst of the damage was concentrated.

Sadly, there were also marauders entering their neighbours’ properties to take advantage of others’ misfortune. Looters, in other words.

Many of these same people were showing up in droves in Ba and Lautoka, and other centres, to queue up for cash handouts. This was a circus with the accompanying tents and entertainment.

Fiji has a unique system of government, where the concerns of individuals can be heard by Government through their advisory councillors and DO (District Officers).

It would not have been hard for these people to assess the various degrees of loss and report accordingly. In fact, in my area, they did do that. It was shameful that those that needed a helping hand, were lumped in with greedy people without morals or honesty, happy to line up and lie for monetary gain.

It is almost guaranteed that we will be hit again by more cyclones and we should all be building, by law, to category 5 standards.

Government should be ready to provide assistance when the next one hits, but, hopefully, not giving handouts to those happy to stand in line and lie.

New 7s King

Dharmendra Kumar, Suva

Jerry Tuwai said that “he cannot be compared to maestro Waisele Serevi.” and he went on to further say “I will never be able to match Serevi . He is the king of 7s and until I die,I will still not be able to match him.”

We all know of Jerry Tuwai’s humility, but it’s time for the coronation of the ‘new king of sevens’.

He has achieved what no other sevens player has achieved and he is simply a polished diamond.

The debates of who’s a better player will always be in people’s mind but it’s important to retain Jerry Tuwai until the Olympic Games next year.

Jerry Tuwai is a truly special player. Every time he touches the ball something magical happens and that’s why it’s so important that the Fiji Rugby Union and the rugby mad fans find a way to keep little Jerry till the 2020 Olympic Games.

I think we can all agree that Jerry Tuwai is a rare breed of rugby player. He still embodies the loyalty most people expect, but loyalty alone is not enough.

The Fiji Rugby Union and the Fijian Government must reward Jerry with a new house.

I believe that there is nothing cheap about loyalty. Rather loyalty must be rewarded. Iliesa Delana got a house for one gold medal and so should Jerry  for 18 Gold medals.

The FRU should allow rugby fans to donate a saqamoli each to reward and retain him.

The Fijian Government and the FRU must come up with something.

If Jerry leaves he will lose his form so will the gold medal slip. Get him a house and let fans donate to keep him till Olympics 2020.
Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Rubbish collection

Tomasi Boginiso , Nasinu

I have observed in recent times that there has been more rubbish on the road side than ever before.

With the introduction of daily rubbish collection, the public assumed that their rubbish would be taken care of.

This is in the form of the time that they place their rubbish on the roadside for collection.

However, the people of Nasinu have been putting their rubbish on the road at any time convenient to them , knowing that it would be collected at any time, and if missed that it would be collected the next day.

Unfortunately for the rubbish that still remains on the roadside, it is taken apart by the dogs in the area.

These are the rubbish that are on the streets and no one seems to care.

I hope that some measures are taken to solve this litter problem.

Rabuka on the budget

Dharmendra Kumar , Rewa Street, Suva

The Opposition leader Sitiveni Rabuka in giving his expert views on the budget is indeed hilarious.

Whilst being the Prime Minister back then, he did nothing for the Fijians apart from the collapsing of the NBF and here he tries to lecture a ‘smart’ government.

“Wise man speaks because they have something to say; some speak because they have to say something.”

The Minister for Economy hit the nail right on the head when he said: “It’s not Rabuka at the helm steering the country’s economy, but Voreqe Bainimarama”.

I recall Mr Rabuka as the leader who was an expert in getting the wrong things done over and over again.

You were given a few opportunities, but you did nothing for the people apart from the NBF collapse and the violence people endured during the 1987 coup.

It’s time to sit, listen and learn.

Kava drinking

Simon Hazelman , Savusavu

The observation made by members of the Catholic Church in Fiji that some priests spend lots of time consuming kava is not only a very well-known fact, but it’s happening in just about every Christian Church denomination.

It has long time been a habit that binds us as its slaves.

Kava drinking is a national problem, happening consistently in the heart of our churches and homes, and everywhere else where it is consumed.

While drinking kava in a moderate and sensible manner is acceptable the problem is that the majority would rather consume it in an extremely abusive manner with the ultimate aim to get doped, in the same way that alcohol makes one drunk, and in the same way in which smoking marijuana makes one stoned. The outcome is pretty much the same.

The simple fact that the majority of priests consume kava clearly shows the status in which our so-called Christian faith is operating, in a doped, drunken, stoned state!

It’s no wonder then why many churches are failing! There is an invisible garment woven around us from many years of abuse and the habit has become our worst enemy!

When you sow an act you reap a habit, when you sow a habit you reap a character, and when you sow a character you reap a destiny, and boy, we have long gone reaching that destiny!

Abusive kava drinking has led us to deny Christ each and every day!

We have definitely lost the plot!

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Our 7s gladiators

Kirti Patel, Mohan Singh Pl, Lautoka

Kudos to our 7s gladiators for their wonderful performance in the London and Paris 7s. You made us all proud and it was worthwhile watching the games at odd hours.

Thanks to the coach as well for the way he moulded the players. The key role that he does is very essential and requires a good level of skills and judgement.

Rugby is one area where the whole of Fiji gets together to cheer for the team. This is time when all unite and have only one purpose, that is to win the game which we are well known for. Rugby is our pride and to win is always the icing on the cake.

I don’t have words to describe the unity as a nation that we feel during this exciting, crucial and wonderful moment.

It automatically gives us the courage and strength with positive vibes. Oh, just how wonderful to see those tries, one after the other. What a beauty.

One thing that is a major relief now is that the conversion area is being improved. I hope it remains or gets better, if possible.

This has been a problem area.

Of course, no one wants to lose, but we can’t always have it all, thus in times of loss, we still stand with our players in support of their future matches.

You all sacrifice for your families to go to other countries to play and bring glory and your hard work is being recognised.

Win or lose, we are right behind you and our prayers are always with you and our nation. Vinaka boys and the coach.

May God bless you all.

Rabuka and Biman’ nonsense

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Namaka, Nadi

This Methodist lay preacher seems to think that he is the best person to advise our government on how best to govern and run our country relevant to its National Budget announcement.

He has conveniently forgotten the NBF’s almost $300 million saga he wrote off as a failed PM during his term in 1995, but this government is selective and very smart in what it wants to hear and discards unprofessional nonsense.

Our National Budget for the year 2019-2020 is holistically a very smart and inclusive one, which is the prerogative of the FijiFirst Government and it is all about the Fijian people.

Sitiveni Rabuka must be reminded that the SODELPA house is in a very big mess, which is a reflection of his own very poor and weak leadership and that is where his priority should be right now.

He should leave the governance of our country to the FijiFirst Bainimarama-led Government, which has the mandate of the majority of Fijians.

I also do support the Minister for Economy in labelling Prof. Biman’s criticism of our national budget as utter nonsense.

He is in the same mode as Rabuka, where they will first shoot themselves in the foot and then later regret their rhetoric.

May I ask how many national budgets has Prof. Biman been involved in during his short political career and under which government?

He may be a professor in economics, but there are hundreds of very highly-qualified economists who are employed by Government in its many different departments that contribute equally and professionally to the make-up of our country’s yearly national budgets.

They must keep their ill-conceived opinions to themselves until it is required because, otherwise, they are only making a fool of themselves.
Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Traditions  vs medical problems

Taitusi Sokiveta,  Phoenix, AZ

One of the biggest problems, especially  in  Fijian villages is that traditions are  taken  so seriously like the 10 Commandments or  the law.

The  belief system in villages is tradition came from God.   Instead  it’s  a  manmade doctrine that lingers on from the days of cannibalism now mixed in with today’s religion, makes it according to villagers decision between heaven and hell.

That’s how serious it’s taken.  Now this becomes a very serious problem, especially if you have medical conditions in villages.

The  albinos or in iTaukei,  rea, their  white skin can  create cancer because it’s a medical problem from  birth to adulthood and that’s  why they  wear sunglasses long-sleeved shirts with long pants  and  hats.

The problem here is tradition doesn’t allow women to wear pants in villages and nobody is allowed to wear hats.

So tradition is overriding  medical condition in villages and putting peoples life at risk because of a belief system that’s deeply engraved into peoples’  minds  and  soul that it has become the 11th commandment   of the 10 commandments.

Nothing is going to change this until hell freezes over according to tradition,   custom and culture engraved into villagers’ souls.

I had similar situations in 2016. I have bad knees so I wear prosthetic knee pads to enable me to walk and protect me against excruciating pains.

The problem here is I can’t sit on the floor. In  America it’s no big deal you can sit anyway  you like as long as your comfortable.

In some village it was OK   but I had to explain first to the villagers that I have a medical condition and wasn’t trying to be the paramount chief of Fiji and Rotuma.

In other villagers some houses were OK, but some were not OK with me sitting on a chair and so I avoided those houses like a plague.

The problem here is there has to be a law that protects people with medical condition in villages and to be written on paper by a judge and medical doctor. And they should be under full protection by the Police Department not the village chief or turaga-ni-koro because they worship tradition, custom and culture as if it came from God Himself.

People living with disabiliies and medical  conditions should be a number one priority in case of medical emergency  and should be above religion, traditions, culture and customs in all Fijian villages.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Thank you PM

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

The Prime Minister is hereby thanked with heartfelt appreciation for the swiftness in taking appropriate action to remove stray dogs, nationwide. This is in light of the sad case of little two-year old Amari Whippy.

This heart-breaking true life story of a little girl, emotionally and physically scarred for life is hard to comprehend. Amari was not safe, even in her home compound in Narewa, Nadi.

I pray some kind generous heart will step forward allowing Amari to seek corrective plastic surgery overseas for her bitten off ear.

Mr Bainimarama, thank you with all sincerity.

Vina du riki na Momo na Prime Minister.

Nadi Town Council with similar urgency must rise to the occasion to immediately lead the process to remove and appropriately euthanise such “harmful pests” from our neighbourhoods.

Any repetition cannot be tolerated.

Mystery illness, budget

Kirti Patel, Lautoka

Sadly, we have to use the word “mystery sickness” which claimed the life of the tourists Michelle and David Paul.

This is not common and getting to hear this is very mysterious indeed. The matter is still under investigation and we hope some information can be revealed to allay the anxieties of our people and that of the tourists visiting our shores.

Our prayers are with the family and we can understand David’s mum’s sentiments as she shares her last conversation with her son where he mentioned his wife’s death and that he was not too well himself.

Sad for a mother to hear such things, from the son who was on a distant shore. It is heartbreaking to know of her mentioning that “we are stuck in time and can’t seem to move forward.”

We hope God gives her and her family strength in this difficult time. Let’s hope for something to come which can give a clue to this mystery.

On the other hand, let’s touch a slight edge of the Budget where the plastic levy has been increased. I suggest to completely ban the plastic production if the purpose is to be fulfilled.

The supply and demand factor will always kick in. As long as the demand for plastic is there the supply will keep rolling. Completely eradicating the process is the only way to stop this issue. Increasing the fine will make no difference. The chain will keep rolling.

The plastic reaches from one household to another, one person to another, one place to another in different ways and so forth. It finds it’s way to the sea and rivers somehow.

Sensible people dispose of it well, yet it reaches the ocean. People in dire need will surely buy plastics for whatever purposes they need them for.

Ban it completely to avoid this hassle once and for all. We also hope that citizens dispose all the plastics including other rubbish properly. The change in mindset is all that is needed, but well if every mind did think alike, this world would be a different place today.

Finally, we thank our Prime Minister for his stern warning to the drug dealers. Let’s hope his words are heeded.

The increasing trend in drug dealing is worrying and anything that helps in its eradication is welcomed.
Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Boom and Doom

Simon Hazelman, Savusavu

The ruling FijiFirst Party says we’re going through an economic boom, a period of great prosperity and rapid economic growth and the opposition party is saying that we’re going through an economic doom, in that our economy is headed for failure!

The ruling FijiFirst Party are always seen to be optimistic and positive moving forward while the opposition on the other hand are always despondent and full of pessimism in their endeavour to change the status quo!

While these so-called leaders, all of whom we put into Parliament, go about their booming and dooming and arguing about what’s right and wrong for us, our daily lives continue on as it normally does!

These Parliament sessions are nothing more than an avenue that’s creating intolerance and instability.

The more we get to watch these proceedings the more we get to realise that what really is going on is the fight for political power, rather than a fight for the interests of the people.

We don’t want to hear doom and gloom but projections of positivity and messages of hope!

The English novelist, journalist and critic, George Orwell, summed it all up in one sentence when he said “Political language is designed to make lies sound truthful and murder respectable.”

That, people, is the doom we’re really facing!

Progressive Budget

ET Smith, Auckland

This new National Budget is a prudent and progressive Budget.

While expenditure has been cut by $1 billion it is amazing that the Government is still able to retain its social policy initiatives.

I am particularly impressed by the benefits for mothers of new-born babies, the extra maternity leave, the paternity leave and the Family Care leave.

This is the best time for families with children. The free school fees and free school bus fares and free textbooks.

There are so many benefits out there for the ordinary people.

Peacekeeping

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

Knowing SSP Malakai Kivarua as a friend I knew he would go a long way. Congratulations SSP Malakai Kivarua for being appointed contingent commander in Yemen peacekeeping assignment. This is after he was appointed the contingent commander to lead a FPF contingent to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in November last year.

Originally from Lomainasau Tokatoka Tailevu , I thank the wife and children for their support at all time . Vinaka Vakalevu Mala.

EFL shares

Amrit Singh, Bau Road

Those who applied for shares and are on domestic subsidy tariff received 6 cents per share. Which means 15 dollars was paid to a 250 non-voting shareholder and 9 dollars to domestic no subsidy user.

Now if 80 thousand people received 15 dollars, then EFL would have paid around a million dollars in dividends to non-voting shares. Giving 15 dollars and saying we are giving you shares for one financial year after you make $115 million worth of profits? At least 150 dollars would have been some money or 50 dollars for some people.

Fifteen dollars, really? You could have set up a Christmas tent near My Suva Park and give 15 dollars to everyone who came there rather than putting people through this kind of hustle to even apply for shares.

Remember, not all will buy shares.

Not everyone wants to buy shares because not everyone in Fiji have large chunks of money.

Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Expression Of Appreciation

The Rewa Tikina Development Committee wishes to expresses its sincere gratitude to the National Director of Habitat For Humanity of Fiji and its staff for their significant development assistance which has helped to transform the lives of Tavuya villagers in Rewa. It has taken three years for their project to be completed.

The project includes safe access for the physically disabled, proper washroom facilities and water supply and homes for the needy.

No one has been left behind.

I also acknowledge the generosity of all members of Community For Communities, (Sydney) for helping to make it happen.

We are humbly privileged that through your collective efforts the villagers have been empowered by the assistance which has allowed them to enjoy the basic necessities about life.

Once again, VINAKA VAKALEVU Habitat For Humanity of Fiji and C for C (Sydney) for your collaborative efforts and contribution. The Tikina of Rewa looks forward to more engagements with you in the future.

Teacher contracts

Simon Hazelman, Savusavu

Why should teachers be spared work contracts when the majority of Fijians work on contract basis?

Ro Teimumu Kepa’s statement that teachers were like beggars who could not be choosers is a rather lame statement to make, considering the standard of teachers and teaching these days.

Teachers should count themselves lucky getting three to five-year contracts.

In the private sector work contracts range from one to three years with the majority on two and three-year contracts.

Basically, an employment contract is an agreement between the employer and employee, with conditions and requirements of the job and covers all of the terms between the two parties.

The only reason people are up in arms about contracts is simply because they can hardly keep up with their side of the bargain. The contract is there to protect the employer as well in that employees carry out their duties as required by the employer in order to keep up with or lift the standard of service.

Like the private sector, all government personnel ought to be on work contract basis.

The standard, as we’ve known it, throughout government agencies and departments and for decades, is rather poor. It’s about time many of us Fijians wake up to the realisation that there is a need to lift standards to a productive and efficient level.

Contractual basis is the only way for that to happen, period!

Airport departure

Joe Smith, Pacific Harbour

Too much confusion exists at our airports.

Airline staff do advise passengers about on-hand luggage items that are allowed on-board. However, internal airport security staff say differently.

They seize cough mixtures, 50gm liquids sealed in plastic, tooth paste, gel, etc telling passengers they are not allowed to carry those items with them.

Could the chief executive officer of Customs and airlines provide a detailed listing of items that passengers should not carry with them?

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Congrats Suva

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

Congratulations to the capital city side, Suva, for a successful defence of the Skipper Cup final 34-26 against Nadroga Stallions.

You are true provincial cup champions.

Celebrate!

Commisserations Nadroga. You lost to a better Suva side. Sadly, a couple of refereeing decisions and assistant referees’ oversight did not go your deserved way.

Thank you for a gutsy performance.

Thank you for an awesome, hard-fought, worthy challenge.

We wait another year, meanwhile.

That’s sports!

Money matters

Joe Smith, Pacific Harbour

Could the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) explain the money transmission policy on the amount different categories of passengers are permitted to take out of Fiji?

There are too many useless referrals and too much confusion, banks, Customs, RBF, FRCS, lawyers, accountants etc.

Dog Traps

Floyd Robinson, Suva

Speaking of the dog traps which authorities are implementing after the unfortunate incident in Nadi, one hopes that parts of Toorak, Suva, are considered.

There are good number of dogs around Augustus Street and Johnson Street.

These dogs are known to pounce on pedestrians.

A number of pedestrians, including children of at least two schools, are known to pass through parts of Toorak including the famous Amy Street.

In addition, these dogs are making their way to compounds and freely passing their droppings, which is rather an unpleasant surprise each morning.

A blessed week, but just be cautious when passing through parts of Toorak.

Productivity

Joan McGoon, Nadi

I refer to Nicolette Chambers’ article on 31.05 regarding the Standards of Productivity in Fiji and how Mr Parveen Bala attempts to lift these.

Quite a noble feat because industrious Fijians would, of course, cry “slave labour” if they weren’t being rightly treated with the right wages.

However, can companies afford to increase salaries even if productivity increased, what with all the red tape and dozens of imposed taxes?

Also, are there other issues affecting productivity levels such as age-old prejudices, demographics and the list is endless?

Quite a list to sift through Mr Bala.

Managing human resources is quite essential for productivity rates to soar and for Fijians to benefit from such.

Looks like the whip is cracking!

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

In praise of Jack’s of Fiji

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

The ground floor of the now Nadi Jack’s of Fiji shop was where the old, first and original Jack’s Handicraft Shop was situated sometimes between 1969-1970.

The founder, Jekishan Ratanji Khatri, established what would become a household name from very modern shopping brands, including restaurants, bars, hotel ownership and apartments located throughout the country.

The name Jack’s is the nickname of Jekishan and I personally met this gentleman in his first shop in 1980 when I walked into it with those from the tourism industry.

I met this very kind, likeable, lovable and very generous elder in society.

He passed away in 1983 at the age of 58 years where many of us from Fiji’s tourism industry attended his funeral at their former residence close to the Nadi Bus Station.

His legacy and vision lived on and materialised through his sons Dilip Khatri, Raju Khatri and Kirit Khatri with his many grandsons and granddaughters 50 years later to this year where they celebrated their anniversary with his ageing wife, Mrs Khatri.

I personally would like to commend the Khatri family in that they have never missed a year in commemorating the legacy and hard work of the elder Khatri every year.

At the same time like this in June the family pays for adverts in our dailies to remember and honour his sacrifice for his family and country.

They have never wavered, they have stood strong together through thick and thin, they have never left and migrated offshore where they have lived true to the desire of Jekishan Ratanji Khatri.

A great Fijian family indeed who contributed silently and immensely to the development of our country, as a very close family friend I say vinaka vakalevu to this marvellous Khatri family.

Qamea landslide

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

In December 2016, a landslide occurred at Dreketi Village in Qamea Island, and part of the village was greatly affected.

Luckily no lives were lost. But to this day, nothing has been done to improve the livelihood of the villagers of Dreketi.

What was worst affected are the school children who lost their newly renovated school that was buried in the disaster. Today the students are still attending classes inside their church, which also suffered some damage during the landslide.

The village community hall, which was an evacuation centre, remains completely buried today. The villagers are at risk, should another disaster strike them.

I plea with the Government and relevant authorities to visit the village of Dreketi in Qamea and maybe listen to their cries.

Plastic levy

Joan McGoon, Nadi

As the harmful effects of plastic begin materialising worldwide, efforts are now being put in place for a ban on plastic in the country next year with levy being increased from $0.20 to possibly $0.50.

Seems like RB Patel Supermarket has begun its proactive initiative and begun charging $0.30 a plastic now instead of next year.

They will need a bigger Customer bag shelf though as their current small shelf will not be able to hold all their Customers bags waiting to be filled with groceries.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Road fatalities

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

Why, oh why, in spite of all warnings, statistics and appeals, our road death toll mounts, ever so steadily?

Speeding and dangerous driving continue unabated? Again, why? Obviously, the alarming messages are just not “getting through.”

Arrogance, is definitely taking its stand.

Too many “numb skulls?”

With almost 48 years of driving experience, I must now conclude, the time is now right for both the Land Transport Authority and Fiji Police Force, to carry out timely networking and proceed to very early beginnings of every driver.

Driving school! What really happens from issuance of Learner’s Permit, sitting driving lessons (both theory and practical), to passing both; issuance of driver’s licence and closely monitoring Provisional Plate for the specified duration.

Something is definitely and seriously wrong with so many repeat offending drivers.

The system is just not working.

Generally, most repeat offending drivers are younger ones, below 40 years of age.

There are some who are better, law abiding drivers.

Again, respectfully, broadly thinking well outside the box, here’s a radical suggestion, many will disagree, LTA run driving schools, themselves.

All hell will break lose with this suggestion, offered freely, out of greatest concern, to ease road death stats, speeding and dangerous driving.

Stop order

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

To become the tallest building in the Pacific, millions of dollars spent already to get to this stage and the investor of this project is happy to reach the final stages, but only to have a stop order issued for the WG building in Suva.

All the issues raised should have been looked at from the very beginning of the agreement. Why weren’t stop orders issued when the foundation was under construction?

These stop orders drive investors away from our country and will make them think twice about investing here.

Why don’t all the stakeholders get together, solve the problem and get on with completing the construction?

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

A new era

Floyd Robinson, Nasinu

Is Nadroga’s dominance and superiority in the local rugby scene conquered? Well, judging by Suva’s performance in the final of the Skipper Cup competition it certainly looks like Nadroga had no effective response.

It’s taken a while, but for now it looks like the beginning of a new era in our domestic rugby competition.

Aside from that our national women’s rugby league team, the Bulikula, thrashed the Papua New Guinea Orchids in their first ever outing.

SODELPA very frightening

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

It is very frightening to even think if SODELPA won the election last year and formed government.

What would have happened to our beautiful and multiracial Fiji despite the fact that they are still trying to sort out their vanua internal power struggles and leadership in accordance with their amended party constitution since 2013 when it was registered as a political party?

Internal power struggles where it has never stopped since, it would have been a very unstable government and the infighting is a reflection of the very weak Sitiveni Rabuka leadership where he is unable to stabilise his own sinking iTaukei canoe.

I do hope all those SODELPA supporters are awake and watching very closely. As it slowly unfolds every day, Rabuka should first look around before taking the leadership swipe to the government side.

Who is realistically in control at the SODELPA home? Is it the Matanitu Vanua CBM against the Kubuna and the Burebasaga confederacies? But the Tovata confederacy has already been nullified as the numbers are at play and just too bad for Anare Jale with his supporters from the Province of Lau.

SODELPA is realistically a home filled to the brim with drama queens and kings, with absolutely no leadership at all.

Scholarships for India

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

Great news by the Indian Commissioner to Fiji.

One hundred scholarships are currently available for Fijian students. A very encouraging offer to the public to take up the opportunity and apply for the scholarship.

For those who have been very unfortunate in getting scholarships or still trying to obtain a scholarship, I believe this is the opportunity for our people.

The Fiji – India relationship seems to be working well. Vinaka India.

Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Vatuwaqa cemetery and crematorium

Dewan Chand, Suva

I write this open letter to the Special Administrator Suva City Council (assuming he is in charge of Vatuwaqa cemetery/crematorium) and wish to register my concern regarding the upkeep and maintenance of the above mentioned.

It is in a state of neglect for a very long time. It has no proper facilities such as toilets, a hall and a caretaker’s living quarters.

There is no gate to prevent the night revellers from abusing the premises.

Suva has a very large population and the Vatuwaqa crematorium and burial grounds are in great demand.

Hindus, Muslims and Christians use this facility. Therefore, it is only fair that it should be well kept and given the dignity it deserves.

The burial grounds are encroaching on to the crematorium area. Families have been burying their dead and building structures on graves; some really huge ones to place the tomb stones.

The love, attachment and emotions are understandable. But this chaotic situation cannot continue.

I strongly suggest that a gas fired crematorium be built at the current site to conserve the mangrove timber, which is currently being used to cremate the dead. In view of Fiji’s role vis-a-vis climate change, it will be a big plus for all Fijians.

Those who have visited the Dignified Crematorium at 9 Miles, Nasinu, will agree with me that it is a beautifully kept facility with an ample parking spaces, gardens, toilet facility and a modern hall with ample seating facility for conducting the final prayers and speeches etc.

I am told that a new crematorium is being built at the Raralevu Cemetery, which will cater for the cremation of three bodies at any one time. It is a great move to modernise the final resting place for our dead.

I sincerely hope that my appeal will not fall on deaf ears and some action will be taken to modernise the Vatuwaqa cemetery and crematorium grounds.

Congrats Jack’s Nadi

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

Against all odds, going in as underdogs, against the inclement Ratu Cakobau Park weather and heavy underfoot conditions, you rose as a sleeping giant, from its slumber to beat defending champs Naitasiri.

What an awesome effort. Even I had my doubts, pre-match, but amazingly you conquered.

Sincere congratulations Jetset Jack’s Nadi for your amazing grit and dogged determination to beat Naitasiri 14-10 on their home turf to wrest the coveted Farebrother Trophy to Nadi.

Now, the big hard task awaits us all.

Do your utmost in your defence of this coveted trophy.

Summon all your combined strengths.

You have all that it takes.

All our chiefs in the vanua of Nadi need to rally all of Nadi to support our team to a successful defence.

Winning was easier than every defence to come.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Martintar, Nasoso Highway

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

It is one of the best, most modern highways to drive on, but now there is a risky obstruction.

On the highway, those bougainvillea flowers planted on the road islands are overgrown and it could prove fatal for drivers and the travelling public.

Can the authorities concerned trim the plants?

Bible and synod

Simon Hazelman, Savusavu

Archbishop Peter Loy Chong of the Catholic Church in Fiji stated that we needed a church that acted correctly and that the synod would guide us to follow closely the heart of God.

As far as I know there is only one book that will guide us surely and closely to God. And that book is the Bible, written and inspired by God Himself.

If we claim to follow Christ we should trust in the scripture as confidently as Jesus and his Apostles did.

The Bible is the ultimate guide for life!

There should never be another?

Budget implications

Epeli Rabua, Suva

The media recently mentions the Government’s concern at children selling food at night.

As we see the increase of “street kids” in our urban areas, the media mentions that these are neglected children. However, the media never mentions the reasons why there is an increase in street kids or why more and more of them are neglected.

Fiji’s budgets over the past 13 years have seen an increase in the country’s cost of living expenses without the corresponding increase in salaries or wages for the average income earner. Children are selling food at night and are being neglected because their parents simply cannot provide for them!
Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Road management

Satish Nakched, Suva

I believe that any temporary road administration arrangement is for a short time only.

It is then implemented to monitor the traffic situation with the view for a permanent solution after a collection of high-quality data and information. This was the case at Ratu Dovi Road, Laucala Beach.

In September 2017, motorists were taken by surprise when road humps, without any notice, were installed at Ratu Dovi Road near the Coca-Cola factory.

Later, the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) claimed that it was a hazardous spot where many accidents took place and the speed limit was reduced to 30 kilometres per hour.

The FRA stated that it is only a temporary arrangement and the directive will be reviewed. It has been more than two years now and the rubber humps, because of the heavy vehicle movements, have come off their fixtures and are lying scattered on the road. The loose rubber is very dangerous. It can get caught under the wheels of vehicles and could contribute to accidents or cause damage to the body of smaller vehicles.

There are also exposed nuts, which were used to hold down the humps, and this can easily cause a tyre puncture. The humps are almost as flat as the road surface and are not fit for the desired purpose – They do not slow down the traffic, which was the original intention of the implementation.

The 60KMPH speed limit sign boards are covered with black plastic, apart from the 30 KMHP, and I believe not a single driver is adhering to the new speed limit. If they did, we could have a massive traffic jam during the peak periods. Some portions of the road where the rubber humps have completely come-off have left a crack on the surface.

I believe the relevant authority needs to be more proactive in any road exercise that they undertake. And in real time be responsive to the changes that may be needed. Leaving their damaged and obsolete assets that do not disseminate correct information to the motorists reflect negatively on the organisation, apart from the physical hazard that it has created.

Rugby captain

Floyd Robinson, Toorak

Almost 10 years ago whilst studying in Hamilton, I had the privilege of meeting up with several exceptionally talented Fijians who were playing rugby in New Zealand and in search of professional contracts.

Among them was a gentleman by the name of Dominiko Waqaniburotu. One easily recognised him as a dedicated player who stood out from most others. With his attitude, he was going to go a long way in his career. He was an individual who did not say much, but his performance on the field was always a class act and it was not going to be long for the national selectors to sit up and take notice.

I recall writing back then about him and another player by the name of Sisa in Hamilton, who had the potential to make it into our national side. In summary, our national 15s team is fortunate to have a leader of his calibre. All the best to our national 15s squad, as they prepare to take on several teams leading up to the World Cup in Japan, which is only days away.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Bad luck Nadi

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

The disallowed try early in the second half through questionable decisions by the referee and his assistant spelt doom for Nadi.

The slow-mo FBC TV replay showed absolutely clear grounding.

Nevertheless, we take the loss, fairly and squarely.

Sincere congratulations Nadroga Stallions.

Sincere thanks to the huge crowd in excess of 9000 to grace Prince Charles Park, a provincial record attendance.

Celebrate Nadroga.

New Farebrother champs 20 – 3 over Jack’s Nadi.

Two individual brilliant tries in each half won the match for you.

Sorry Nadi we were not quite good enough today … one clear bad decision went against us.

This may have turned the tide for Nadi. That’s rugby.

The referee is also human.

Tovole leqwa ena yabaki vou.

Sa rewa na lame na icovi na Farebrother ena lia boto na macawa.

Vina va levu vo mutou kece na saravou. (We can try again next year. We managed to keep the Farebrother trophy for a week. Thank you to all the players.)

Irrelevant Boxes

Lily Finau, Narere, Nasinu

Quantifying all that we are and all that surrounds us remains a task everyone seems obligated to do.

The world around us is so vast that those that came before us had a need to label everything in it so that they can better understand it. However, most times the act of classification has caused us to think along a certain dimension that momentarily makes us discriminatory. For centuries we have come to accept the labels and boxes our society has defined for us.

In this regard we have failed to question the norm and we have mostly accepted discrimination along racial and gender lines in our societies.

We are so dependent on our culture and “beliefs” that we fail to see that we are causing more harm than good.

The problem does not lie in our culture or our beliefs, the problem is that we fail to accept that change is inevitable.

Our culture is subjected to change and that is a fact the world over can attest to.

For us as Christians we don’t have to look far, but to our own life manual which is the Bible, to see how change is integrated.

Most scenarios in the new Testament depict that change was at first difficult to be accepted, but eventually it was tolerated, adapted to and accepted.

Most importantly any change that the early believers did was to never cause contradiction to the gospel.

They knew as time passed that change is essential, but the teachings and guidance of the Word were to be thoroughly exhausted.

As we all know that the only commandment that trumps all others in the Bible is love.

It is time we start to really ask whether the boxes we so desperately defend demonstrates love or just spits out hatred and animosity among the genders and ethnic groups.

The intellect we are all blessed with is capable of much more and no technology ever made can match it.

So, it is high time we try to use what we are all blessed with together with the love we are taught, to push out the outdated boxes that no longer serves us.

To keep thinking and observing this world on a single dimension is disrespectful to the abilities we are given and to the One that created it.

Let us look to ourselves and not to our leaders for solutions.

For however the climate of politics may be in our country let us not be blinded to the wounds it sometimes inflicts.

Our leaders are only human and so are we, so let us begin to see each other as human beings first before we see race or gender.

We should always remember that what worked in our society 20 years ago may not be what we need now and we shall only glance the past to learn from it, not duplicate it.

At the grassroots let’s not allow our leaders to think for us, but let’s think for ourselves, properly discern the matters at hand and always love one another the best way we know how.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Deafening silence

Jan Nissar, Australia

It is amazing to see that the words of an idiot have united the country in an unprecedented manner.

But the silence from the leadership of SODELPA especially the Leader of the Opposition and other MPs from his party is deafening.

Bulitavu comment

Dewan Chand, Suva

I write to express my disgust at the most despicable comment made by Mosese Bulitavu, a SODELPA Member of Parliament, despite his public apology.

I understand that this was done under duress.

The newly-elected president of SODELPA must have sensed the irretrievable political damage this has done to his party.

I am pleased that the spontaneous statements of condemnation erupted, beginning with Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, other Government Ministers, the heads of the NFP and Labour parties, the Director of Human Rights and Anti- Discrimination Commission, NGOs and Jyoti Pratibha of the Fiji Sun.

They all had one thing in common, to call out a so-called educated person, a member of Parliament and a Christian who has put all Fijians to shame through his venom against Indo-Fijian women.

Bulitavu must have had a very poor breeding in race relations.

Mosese Bulitavu and other Fijian leaders who have called the Indo-Fijians vulagi have conveniently forgotten the contributions of this community towards the development of Fiji since 1879.

Indentured labourers gave blood, sweat and tears for this country and made it into what it is today, a shining example of a  success story.

Fiji is a beacon of hope and glory and the way the world should be.

I wonder what happens to the often-taught Christian Biblical dictum: “Love thy neighbour as thyself” or is it just plenty of lip service and empty air!

I was taught at All Saints Anglican Mission Primary School that “to err is human but to forgive is divine”.

I rest my case.

Stray dogs

David Chand, Lautoka

I have been following the stray dog saga in Fiji and it seems that the momentum is dying down.

I have just learned that the MOA has issued a TNR (Trap, Neuter and Release) order to the respective municipal councils.

My thinking here is that yes it might have an impact on the number of dogs on the street in the next few years.

Just to put things into perspective a survey taken by the Lautoka City Council two years ago states that it has 2000 stray dogs in its municipality. The numbers now? we can only guess. But the whole issue is about people getting attacked by these dogs.

I would hate to be the person who gets bitten by a dog and then say: “Oh, it’s ok, the dog is neutered.”

We do not have a problem if the dog can reproduce or not, it’s the potential for harm to the public which is the main concern here.

Whoever gave this order has completely ignored the safety of the general public and has not even informed the public on what they are doing.

So let’s look at it this way, the child that got hurt has had the dogs that attacked her neutered and released back into the same neighbourhood.

Wow, if that happened what a smart move it was. Hopefully someone comes up with a better solution than this.

Trains and ferries

Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu

There was so much talk about trains being used to service the Suva-Nausori corridor as a means of public transportation.

A lot of ideas and thoughts sprang up and people were right into it. There were even people who came over to look into it.

And suddenly it faded away.

Then now there is talk of ferries being used to service Suva, Nausori and Lami.

A lot of ideas are floating in the air and even a shipping company is looking forward to undertaking the operation.

More ideas seem to be flowing in.

What’s next? An underground tunnel or a bullet train or maybe an overhead bridge from Suva to Nausori?

Maybe one day one of these dreams may turn into reality.

Levuka buildings

Satish Nakched, Suva

Last month during the Construction Industry Council meeting the Attorney-General highlighted the dirty conditions of the buildings in the Capital City’s Central Business Disrict.

This later generated interesting discussion where the Suva Retailers Association tried to defend and justify their claims and probably were not impressive in their explanation.

This was a major news item covered by the media and some radio stations elevated this issue through their talk back programmes.

The A-Gs statement acted as a catalyst and initiated many to over drive the motion in order to comply with the directive.

It was also interesting to note that there was a visit by the Singapore experts to advise on the transformation of Fiji’s urban centres into a more modern, efficient and environment friendly place to do business.

In the last Budget there was an investment allowance of 25 per cent given under the Income Tax incentive for the renovation of a building and the threshold was reduced to $250,000 from one million but is available to commercial buildings in towns and cities.

I believe while all this assistance is available, our historic town of Levuka still continues to decay.

There are a total of 1,073 World Heritage Sites listed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as having special cultural or physical significance.

To be considered of universal interest a site must meet the selection criteria produced by UNESCO.

Many important places are rejected because they do not meet the selection criteria set.

And there are many more who have applied and are waiting for a decision to join this august group. Levuka is part of the group.

The historic port of Levuka was designated a world heritage site in 2013.

However, it is noted with disappointment that very little improvement was done to the structure of the buildings which have badly deteriorated.

This may be because as the building owners say: “Very expensive to repair the existing structures in its original form in order to restore its uniqueness.”

It is easy to completely build a new building than carry on the repair and maintenance of these pieces of history.

Apart from the buildings there are other important spots such as the water fountains and the tram track that need attention.

Should the current rate of deterioration continue probably in the near future this historical town will be only found in the pages of our history books.

Levuka Town itself is a living museum and must be restored to its former glory.

This cultural heritage is among the priceless and irreplaceable possessions, not only for Fiji, but also for mankind as a whole.

Parts of this heritage, because of their exceptional qualities, can be considered to be of outstanding universal value.

As such they are worthy of special protection against the dangers, which increasingly threaten it through wear and tear.

The World Heritage Convention aims to promote cooperation among nations to protect heritage sites from around the world.

We in Fiji must work within such a framework to prevent the Old Capital from disappearing forever.

Levuka has put Fiji on the world historical map and should undergo continuous repair and maintenance work to maintain its status as a world heritage site.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Thank you, PM

Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Suva

It is touching and heart moving to watch our own Prime Minister on YouTube encouraging our boys, the Flying Fijians, before and after the Rugby Test between the Maori All Blacks and the Flying Fijians on Saturday.

After the 27-10 win, our PM again thanked the boys for a great performance and I believe he represents all the Fijian fans in saying thank you and vinaka vakalevu.

My younger brother, who recently suffered a stroke, managed to get to the ground using his walking stick to watch the game live, even though Fiji One was showing it live. Just one sentence came out from his mouth when he returned from watching the Flying Fijians victory: “mate na ilavo” (It was worth the money).

Now that our campaign towards the Rugby World Cup has begun with a sound victory over the Maori All Blacks, this historic win could be a sign of great victories coming up in the next two months.

Our Prime Minister has told the boys that the NZ Maoris will lift their game another notch in Rotorua this Saturday, but if our boys lift their game also, victory is assured.

Thank you Mr PM, thank you Flying Fijians and thank you all Fijian supporters.

Go Fiji, go.

Congrats, Flying Fijians!

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

Simply awesome!

Sweet, sweet victory 27-10 over the Maori All Blacks. Heartiest congratulations to our very own Flying Fijians.

Please bring the next best NZ 15s.

War on drugs

Simon Hazelman, Savusavu

The world is getting smaller with accessibility bringing things ever so closer.

A few days ago, a cargo ship owned by JP Morgan, one of the largest banking institutions in the United States, was seized in Philadelphia with nearly 20 tonnes (20,000kg) of cocaine worth more than US$1 billion on board.

Last month the US coast guard cutter, Munro, intercepted a suspected drug-smuggling self-propelled, semi-submersible vessel in international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean and seized 16,000 pounds (7258kg) of cocaine. The Munro returned from a three-month deployment, during which it made 14 drug seizures totalling 39,000 pounds (17,690kg) of cocaine and 933 pounds (423kg) of marijuana.

Here at home a few days ago, officers from the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) arrested a woman for allegedly importing 115 grams of the hard drug, methamphetamine, concealed inside a bottle of peanut butter that arrived from the United States of America. The estimated cost of the meth was $115,000 with a social cost associated to be around $210,000. Drugs have found their way to the four corners of the globe by all means possible.

Provided above are just a few examples of how drugs are easily being smuggled around the world which is in fact, a very small percentage of what is actually being smuggled. Drug trafficking has become a lucrative global trade and its distribution and sale seems to be growing with time. There is no doubt that the war on drugs has been a failure and will continue to be so.

William Frank Buckley, an American public intellectual and conservative author, summed up what I believe is the right approach to drugs when he quoted: “The cost of the drug war is many times more painful, in all its manifestations, than would be the licensing of drugs combined with intensive education of non-users and intensive education designed to warn those who have had an experience with drugs.”

This war is a holocaust in slow motion!

Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj

Victorious Victorians

Mohammed Zulfikar, Labasa

Brilliant play displayed by QVS in the Un­der 18 Vodafone Deans final. The difference was QVS technical advisor Ro Alivereti Do­viverata.

Indeed, an exemplary final played yesterday.

QVS played gallantly while RKS played like champions.

RKS led by their nippy captain proved in every aspect of the game why they were favourites. Their rucks, lineouts, scrums, counter attacks and sheer power proved too much for QVS to handle.

But QVS, had the 2018 Under 17 winning squad.

They showed glimpses of Fijian flair, through broken play, attacking rucks and of­floading.

QVS’ kicking game was superb, offloading was tremendous, just how we expect Fijian rugby to be.

Playing a territorial game was one of their best tactics, offloading in pressure situa­tions, a game played patiently.

QVS walked into the final as the underdogs but walked off Lawaqa Park as Victorians.

Technicality, substitution, and their game plan served them well.

The QVS officials, teachers, parents, old scholars and supporters are applauded for their sacrifices.

Ambition did breed success but desire earned QVS to be named the champions.

War on drugs

Taitusi Sokiveta, Phoenix, Arizona

The problem with illegal drugs is world­wide.

It’s not only Fiji’s problem. It’s not the fault of Parliament or the Fiji Police Force or the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service. It’s un­stoppable.

If you become addicted to any of these drugs, crack or cocaine, methamphetamine, opioids and others, it is very hard to stop and very dangerous to help these people because they can become violent and suicidal.

The Police in Arizona, United States, are trained to inject those overdosing from these powerful drugs because it can be too late for the ambulance to arrive in the instance that the drug user may overdose. And they Police officers have to wear gloves for protection.

A couple of months ago, a Police officer tried to inject an addict to save his life but the toxic drug got onto his skin and he died later.

These drugs are so addictive that addicts will go to any lengths to get their fix.

If the drug dealers coming to the United States are slow, the addicts will find a way to get to the source and in many instances, they are caught and are always on the news.

If you live in a Border State like Arizona, California, New Mexico or Texas, drug prob­lems are a daily occurrence.

There are methamphetamine labs all over the United States no matter what state you go to.

Marijuana is grown in Hawaii, Georgia and in other states they have indoor marijuana farms and, in some states, it is legal to smoke and sell marijuana. It’s become a big busi­ness.

No power on earth can stop the flow of ille­gal drugs as long as you have addicts in your own countries who have to get their fix. They are going to be there one way or another.

The best way is to open programmes in eve­ry school, correctional facility, town and all over the country.

It would take God to solve the illegal drug problems around the world.

Stop our children from smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol because that’s the first step, then comes marijuana and hard drug consumption.

Once you’re hooked it’s over.

Religion and spirituality help but you have to maintain it daily not weekly. It’s too long to wait just for Sunday to worship. These illegal drugs are a daily occurrence.

The whole nation as to fight these illegal drugs be it one person, or one group of peo­ple we can’t do it alone.

Everyone should be involved against the fight for illegal drugs and with the help of God it can be done.

Suspension

Sukha Singh, Labasa

When Opposition MP Ratu Naiqama offend­ed the late Speaker of Parliament Dr Jiko Lu­veni he was suspended.

Why is it different from fellow MP Mosese Bulitavu’s case?

Feedback: nemani.delaibatiki@fijisun.com.fj

Eileen Cikamatana

Ronnie Chang, Nadi

In real life for Eileen Cikamatana, as Fiji’s door closed in on her, all was not lost.

This amazingly young 19-year-old super weightlifter now has an awesome huge Aus­tralian window open to her.

Let us not ponder on her life’s negatives. Let us join her in looking forward and wishing her every success in her life’s journey. Join her as she chases her brand-new dreams in newer horizons.

We wish her a happy, healthy, successful, prosperous and rewarding life laced with good fortune and every special blessing.

She will always remember where she first started – in Ovalau.

Parliament altercation

Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi

The video has gone viral and I wish to high­light that the altercation and argument out­side our Parliament by the Prime Minister and Tikoduadua is nothing new.

Many Parliaments the world over have been subjected to the same incidents where mem­bers from both sides have been involved and witnessed on live television.

Their many drama, punching, swearing, wrestling, throwing of mobile phones and water bottles across the room of their August house is always colourful to watch and our Fijian Parliament is no different from those world super powers with their democracies.

One must understand that our PM and the National Federation Party Parliament mem­ber were former military personals.

That’s the make-up of our Fijian politics.

Let’s move on

Taitusi Sokiveta, Phoenix, Arizona

The majority of Fijians voted for our Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and he has delivered to the people.

The pushing in the park lot behaviour can happen to anyone. We are not God, or Jesus Christ or the Holy Ghost. Nobody is perfect.

Shake hands, apologise to each other and move on.

The running of the country is more impor­tant than pushing someone. He didn’t die so let’s move on.

Mr Bainimarama and all his elected party members are doing a great job for Fiji.

Their success rate is the highest in any Gov­ernment Fiji has ever had.

So why are we complaining when they are successful?

Everyone in Fiji knows that our PM has more important work to do for the country and abroad.

A little pushing in the parking lot should not interfere with our PM’s leadership in the country.

If you in Parliament are not happy with our PM’s leadership and the rest of his party’s success in moving Fiji forward then you need to get out of Parliament.

Stop wasting taxpayers’ money and trying to ruin the country by attacking hardwork­ing people who are doing good for the coun­try as a whole.

Feedback: nemani.delaibatiki@fijisun.com.fj