Addressing the drug issue
The drug problem has been a widespread concern, with numerous suggestions and strategies proposed to tackle it. Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua supports the newly established National Counter Narcotics Strategy, which he calls his creation, as the solution. While his aspirations are commendable, addressing only the symptoms without understanding the root causes of drug issues in Fiji will render any strategy ineffective. The root cause is believed to be more structural than social, with the pursuit of economic development inadvertently encouraging drug problems. To effectively address the drug issue, governance structures must be re-evaluated to balance economic aspirations with the values of faith and community. Without this fundamental change, even the National Counter Narcotics Strategy might fail.
Kositatino Tikomaibolatagane
Vuninokonoko Rd, Navua
Inconsiderate, dangerous drivers
There is a growing concern about reckless and inconsiderate drivers. Recently, within just 90 minutes, I witnessed two incidents of such behavior. Despite having a green light, I couldn’t move because two cars tried to beat their red light, blocking my way. These drivers are exploiting the delay in light timing, causing potential collisions. Furthermore, the four-lane highway between Nadi Airport and Martintar junction has turned into a race track, with some drivers speeding past at dangerous speeds. It may be time for the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to install more red light cameras along this section to improve safety and generate revenue.
Norman Yee
Martintar, Nadi
Teen brides
It’s deeply troubling that teenage girls in rural communities are being married off before reaching the legal age of 18, as highlighted by Vani Catanasiga of the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS). In Fiji, individuals below 18 are still considered minors and should be under parental or guardian care. Teen girls should be in school, receiving a formal education, not being married off. This issue raises questions about parental responsibility and demands immediate attention.
Dinesh Kumar
Ba
Threat of drug abuse
Drugs can destroy lives, health, sanity, finances, dignity, relationships, freedom, and identity. Conversations with drug addicts reveal the profound impact of addiction. No one is immune to this scourge, and those involved in drug peddling wreak havoc on society, showing no scruples. It’s crucial to be vigilant and proactive in reporting drug dealers to the police. As concerned citizens, it’s our duty to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of drug abuse.
Colin Deoki
Australia
Structural integrity
It’s disheartening to learn that the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, our oldest and largest healthcare facility, is under structural scrutiny. Six buildings within the complex are deemed structurally unsafe, and seven need immediate repairs. We appreciate the Australian Government’s aid in highlighting this issue after years of neglect. We hope the Coalition Government will critically follow up on upgrading this essential healthcare facility.
Samu Silatolu
Nakasi
Gun fear
The headline “Guns on the table” evokes memories of past turmoil. Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua is prepared to confront dangerous elements if necessary. However, it’s time to focus on promoting food security rather than escalating threats. We hope that with the help of the media, we can navigate through this food crisis.
Tahir Ali
Hamilton, New Zealand
Thanksgiving dinner
FLP’s Mahendra Chaudhry continues to criticize the Coalition Government’s actions, including PM Rabuka’s hosting of a dinner to appreciate his team at the GPH. Such events are normal practice and there’s nothing wrong with them. Mr. Chaudhry should focus on his own affairs.
Tukai Lagonilakeba
Nadi
Constitutional change
A forum on constitutional change will be held by FNU on Thursday, August 1, to discuss future amendments. Key talking points include the rigidity of the 2013 Constitution and whether Fiji is doomed to constitutional changes only through coups and upheavals. It’s time to consider amendments, repeal, or replacement options.
Terry Hulme
Russell St, Eastwood, NSW, Australia
Budget support
Questions arise about the use of millions received for Budget Support, especially when the government hosts extravagant events at luxurious venues like the Grand Pacific Hotel. This seems contradictory, given Fiji’s frequent requests for financial aid from Australia and New Zealand, the latest being $86 million from Australia.
Vikel V Lal
Nasinu
Solid cold
In the past, solidifying coconut oil was a benchmark for cold weather. Recently, even body cream has begun to solidify, indicating colder conditions.
Mohammed Imraz Janif
Natabua, Lautoka
Swimming pool
I am curious about the status of the Lautoka Swimming Pool investigation. Has it been overlooked?
Mohammed Abid
Razak Rd, Lautoka
Trust issue
The case of missing funds at the Police Credit Union raises significant trust issues regarding the Fiji police. With instances of missing exhibits and drugs, public confidence in the police to perform their duties is declining.
Geoffrey Chand
Lautoka
Thanksgiving dinner
FLP’s Mahendra Chaudhry continues his criticism of the Coalition Government’s actions. I fully support PM Rabuka’s hosting of a dinner to appreciate his team at the GPH, which is a normal practice. Mr. Chaudhry should attend to his own business.
Tukai Lagonilakeba
Nadi
Constitutional change
A forum on constitutional change will be held by FNU on Thursday, August 1, to consider future amendments. The discussion will focus on whether the 2013 Constitution’s rigidity limits changes only through coups and upheavals. It’s time to look at amendment, repeal, or replacement options.
Terry Hulme
Russell St, Eastwood, NSW, Australia
Budget support
Concerns have been raised about the allocation of Budget Support funds, especially in light of the government’s extravagant events at luxurious venues like the Grand Pacific Hotel. This behavior seems contradictory as Fiji frequently seeks financial aid from Australia and New Zealand, the latest instance being $86 million from Australia.
Vikel V Lal
Nasinu
Solid cold
In the past, the solidification of coconut oil marked cold weather. Recently, even body cream has begun to solidify, indicating colder conditions.
Mohammed Imraz Janif
Natabua, Lautoka
Swimming pool
Is the investigation into the Lautoka Swimming Pool issue still ongoing, or has it been ignored?
Mohammed Abid
Razak Rd, Lautoka
Trust issue
The case of missing funds at the Police Credit Union raises significant concerns about public trust in the Fiji police. With previous issues of missing exhibits and drugs, many people are losing confidence in the police’s ability to fulfill their responsibilities.
Geoffrey Chand
Lautoka