Three key stories feature on the front page of The Fiji Times for Thursday, October 3.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has stated that intimidation and threats will not be accepted by the Coalition Government, labeling them as “tactics used by the previous regime.” He emphasized that individuals are living freely and peacefully in their occupations while responding to claims made by Francis Pulewai, the former deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), regarding alleged government interference.
Kamikamica urged anyone with evidence of intimidation or attempts to sway decisions to report it to the appropriate authorities.
In economic news, optimism is growing regarding Fiji’s economic outlook as the Asian Development Bank has increased its growth forecast for the country this year from 3.0 percent to 3.4 percent. This adjustment is attributed to improved tourism performance and heightened government spending, according to the recently released ADB September Outlook for Fiji.
In sports, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has encouraged members of the Flying Fijians squad to bring forward any evidence of corruption connected to the Fiji Rugby Union for investigation. Additionally, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru addressed players’ concerns in Parliament about how the Fiji Rugby Union has been approaching these matters.
In another development, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) and Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL) have established a committee aimed at the weekly removal of abandoned and derelict vessels. This initiative is intended to expedite the process of removing such vessels.
According to Minister for Public Works, Communications, Transport, and Meteorological Services Ro Filipe Tuisawau, a meeting has identified wrecks and abandoned vessels. Owners have been issued letters of concern, which require them to make their vessels seaworthy within 30 days. If they fail to comply, further actions such as vessel seizure, removal, or auction will follow.
The first removal of these vessels is expected to commence next month. Concerns about derelict vessels have persisted over the years due to their negative impact on the environment. There have been complaints particularly from the Lau Group regarding shipwrecks on reefs.
Addressing the ongoing issue of derelict vessels in Fiji’s harbors, the cost for removal is estimated at a significant $59 million. Many of these ships are abandoned by local owners, highlighting the need for protective measures to maintain the integrity of Fiji’s harbors. Derelict vessels pose risks not only to other ships but also to the environment, making it crucial to act decisively to preserve the natural beauty and safety of Fiji’s waters.