Fijian Drua Trials and Triumphs
I recently enjoyed Rohit Deo’s insights into the fourth chapter of “The Rise of the Drua,” titled “Plight of the Homeless.” The authors, renowned rugby commentator Greg Clark and Norman Tasker, vividly illustrate the considerable challenges the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua faced while preparing for their inaugural Super Rugby season in 2022 during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. I fondly recall the excitement I expressed in my letters and opinion pieces about the significance of the Drua’s inclusion for Fijian Super Rugby fans and the league itself. In 2022, the Drua secured only two victories, defeating the Rebels 31-26 and Moana Pasifika 34-19. However, the team has since shown improvement, finishing eighth in 2023 and then seventh this year, although they faced tough losses to the eventual champions, the Crusaders and the Blues, with scores of 49-8 and 36-5, respectively. Chapter four effectively showcases the Drua’s determination to excel in an unfamiliar environment, emphasizing their dedication to discipline, fitness, and teamwork. A commendable compilation!
Well, well, well
It’s uplifting to see Sayed-Khaiyum appearing full of life again.
Lautoka Market
Why construct new food stalls that fail to shield vendors during heavy rainfall? Will the council address the muddy conditions?
Lautoka Football
The Lautoka Football Association’s recent Facebook post reveals that two vice presidents were relieved of their duties just before the IDC. It appears that the champion team is grappling with unpublicized issues. It is unfortunate that these matters arose just ahead of the tournament hosted by the Blues.
Professor Narsey
Professor Wadan Narsey has mentioned his family’s issues, societal matters, and his siblings’ relationships multiple times in his recent articles. Is he seeking validation or dealing with a superiority complex?
Send a message!
“Certain individuals” appear to consider selling contaminated food to the public. Would they partake in it themselves? We must send them a strong message that the health and safety of the community is a top priority and should never be compromised.
Ambulance issue
What if every member of Parliament contributed towards purchasing an ambulance annually for our nation, particularly considering their increased allowances? That would be a significant investment.
Presidential nominee
The time has come for a change from the “Taukei Bolatagane” who has previously held the presidency. I propose we nominate the “Roko Tui Dreketi.” What are the thoughts of FWRM, or would they prefer to remain silent? The world is in a constant state of flux.
Mickey Mouse
Is it just me, or does this government increasingly resemble a Mickey Mouse administration in a Banana Republic as time goes on?
Mental health
Mental health is integral to our daily lives and must be understood and addressed within Pacific communities. It’s disheartening to note that those affected often face stigmatization as “mad” or other similar terms. Implementing mental health awareness programs can lead to positive change. We all have a role in supporting this along with the Ministry of Education’s literacy and numeracy initiatives.
Board of inquiry
We urgently need a Few Good Men to rectify the chaos we find ourselves in and restore order for our country and its citizens. Where are these individuals when we need them for the nation’s benefit?
Leadership role
Colin Deoki rightly points out that leadership is not “a masculine endeavour.” The powerful speech delivered by Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, at the UNGA emphasizes how impactful a female leader can be, not just for her nation but for the entire global community. Her address has resonated as one of the most significant speeches addressing pressing global issues I’ve heard in recent times.
World Teachers’ Day!
World Teachers’ Day was observed recently. I extend my gratitude to our teachers for their relentless sacrifices, dedication, and hard work in nurturing our children both within and beyond the classroom. The role of teachers has evolved; they now face new challenges amid changing behaviors and attitudes among students, along with issues stemming from socio-economic problems exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis. Nevertheless, our educators have persevered in imparting knowledge to the youth. Teaching offers a unique chance to make a lasting impact on lives, contributing to a sustainable future and providing personal fulfillment. The migration of teachers from Fiji negatively affects our education system, so it is essential to retain qualified and experienced educators. Advocating for a respected and valued teaching profession while addressing challenges is crucial to attract and motivate teachers. There is a pressing need to explore how education systems, communities, and families recognize and support teachers. The Fiji Teachers Union held a celebration for WTD, and I want to thank The Fiji Times and Fiji One for their coverage of the event. Jona Konataci did a fantastic job capturing the occasion through photography. I urge everyone to respect and appreciate our teachers, for they play a pivotal role in shaping our children’s futures.
Fish poisoning
I found the article in the FT about the Ministry of Fisheries addressing fish poisoning before the cyclone season quite intriguing. The discussion about the connection between fish poisoning and cyclones was surprising, as many do not associate the two. The report mentioned ciguatera dinoflagellates, more prevalent in warmer months, as a primary cause of fish poisoning, alongside improper fish storage. However, we have observed that fish poisoning can occur regardless of cyclone activity. It’s crucial to note that specific fish can be poisonous year-round, while others may only become toxic during specific seasons, such as the red snapper in certain months. Additionally, increased ocean pollution may put migratory fish species at a greater risk of containing harmful substances. I appreciate the Ministry of Fisheries for raising awareness and hope that we continue to study nature and its cycles for better health and safety.
Whitewashing exercise?
There are rumors suggesting that the investigation into Barbara Malimali’s rapid appointment as FICAC commissioner is merely a whitewashing exercise. It’s good to voice this concern ahead of the inquiry, as it offers the Rabuka Coalition Government an opportunity to prove critics wrong. The credibility of the Rabuka Government is at stake here.