On the front page of The Fiji Times for Thursday, October 3, three key stories are highlighted.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has stated that the Coalition Government will not tolerate intimidation and threats, which he described as tactics employed by the previous administration. He emphasized that citizens are living freely and safely in their respective jobs while addressing allegations made by former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Deputy Commissioner Francis Pulewai regarding government interference. Kamikamica urged anyone with evidence of intimidation to report it to the relevant authorities.
In economic news, the Asian Development Bank has improved its growth forecast for Fiji, raising it from 3.0 percent in April to 3.4 percent as of last month. This positive adjustment is attributed to a robust tourism sector and increased government spending, as stated in the ADB’s September Outlook for Fiji.
Additionally, in sports news, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has called on members of the Flying Fijians squad to bring forward any evidence of corruption related to the Fiji Rugby Union for investigation. Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru also addressed players’ concerns in Parliament regarding how the FRU has handled these issues.
In another report, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) and Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL) have established a committee aimed at weekly removal of abandoned and derelict vessels. Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau announced that the initiative will expedite the removal process under the Seaport Management and Maritime Transport Act. Owners of these vessels have been issued a letter of concern, giving them 30 days to make their boats seaworthy, or face removal actions.
Past discussions highlighted the problem of derelict vessels in Fiji, which pose environmental risks and detract from the natural beauty of the waters. With an estimated cost of $59 million to remove these vessels from key harbors, urgent action is necessary to prevent harbors from becoming dumping grounds.
Authorities are calling for decisive measures to protect Fiji’s harbors and maintain their safety and integrity, urging a commitment to ensure they remain clean and secure for all users.