Bula
The front page of The Fiji Times on December 5 features two significant stories.
The first story revolves around a special audit on Walesi Fiji, which revealed troubling findings regarding the handling of public funds. The audit reported unverified payments amounting to $9.3 million and identified a staggering wastage of $80 million in public resources. Minister for Communication, Manoa Kamikamica, expressed deep concern over these findings, describing the disappearance of public funds as a disgraceful misuse of resources. The audit also highlighted questionable deals, such as a project management contract valued at $3.6 million that was awarded without inviting tenders.
In the second story, Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo referred to a $2,200 monthly pension collected by suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, from September 2019 as “theft.” Temo emphasized that Pryde had no authority to accept this payment without the approval of the Attorney-General and validation from the President. Temo’s remarks were made during day three of the Tribunal hearing regarding Pryde’s case in Suva, raising further questions about accountability and governance.
In addition, the paper pays tribute to the late Rokotucaucau Vatuwaqa, a celebrated Fijian musician known for his versatility and remarkable skills. His memory lives on through his contributions to the musical landscape of Fiji.
On an international note, The Fiji Times promises readers comprehensive coverage of global news, connecting them to some of the best news sources worldwide.
Finally, the editorial discusses concerns regarding the Suva City Council’s lack of an effective strategy to tackle drug-related activities within the city. This issue has become increasingly pressing as the illicit drug trade continues to impact urban centers, yet little has been done to address it adequately. The Social Affairs Committee chair, Iliesa Vanawalu, urged the council to adapt its operations to better respond to the challenges of safety, including drug abuse and street security.
Amid these challenges, there’s a glimmer of hope. The acknowledgment of these pressing issues by city leaders opens the door for proactive measures that can significantly enhance public safety and well-being. The call for a strategic plan signifies a step toward robust engagement and collaboration in addressing the city’s complex social problems, fostering an environment where citizens feel secure and valued.
Overall, while the news presents many challenges, the clarity of these issues and the desire for action should inspire hope for future improvements in governance and community safety.
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