Serious concerns are being raised regarding the national response to the health crisis posed by HIV-AIDS and drug use in Fiji. The Fiji Council of Churches has noted that, despite their efforts, initiatives from the community, churches, and government seem ineffective; even churches are reportedly more focused on their congregations rather than addressing these pressing social issues. This situation is the highlighted story in The Fiji Times for Wednesday, August 21.
Additionally, there is a report addressing the ongoing water crisis. As Fiji anticipates low rainfall until late October, some areas in the Northern Division are experiencing concerningly low water levels, impacting villagers’ access to water sources. While the Fiji Meteorological Services indicates the current conditions do not reach drought levels, some residents report that their water sources have completely dried up or are producing unpleasant odors.
The front page also features a story about two local financial institutions that capitalized on the COVID-19 pandemic by purchasing shares in Fiji’s national airline at a significantly reduced price of $4.22 per share.
Furthermore, the Kaila! edition, released every Wednesday inside The Fiji Times, is filled with entertaining activities aimed at a younger audience, featuring vibrant designs and engaging content.
On another note, the controversy surrounding pension cuts implemented in 2012 continues to be a major public issue, drawing considerable attention nationwide. Those affected by this decision, which has significantly impacted their lives, are seeking full resolution from the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), claiming the cuts resulted in unjust financial losses. Many pensioners are anxious about their future, uncertain and troubled about why the organization, responsible for their welfare, acted against their best interests.
For the first time in Fiji’s contemporary history, existing pension contracts were violated. Some pensioners opted for a lump sum payment instead of reduced monthly pensions, but soon became concerned about their financial security once those funds were depleted.
Recent articles in The Fiji Times elaborated on the pensioners’ plight, challenging arguments made by an FNPF expert who defended the Fund’s decisions. With no hope for redress from the previous administration, which had enacted legislation aimed at preventing judicial review of the dispute, the aggrieved pensioners found renewed optimism following the election of the Coalition Government. Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad has responded favorably to a committee representing the pensioners, proposing to restore the reduced pensions to their original amounts using public funds starting this month.
Nevertheless, the focus now shifts to the FNPF board and management for a clear response, particularly concerning the unresolved matter of 12 years of unpaid pensions and assistance for those who opted for lump sums. It is evident that many individuals have endured significant hardship due to the pension cuts, losing substantial financial support they had relied on for their future.
It is urgent for the FNPF to address these concerns with clarity and to facilitate discussions aimed at achieving consensus on the necessary steps forward, considering the impact on all involved parties. Many have suffered enough, emphasizing the need for an accelerated response from the FNPF in addressing this critical issue.