Two significant stories are featured on the front page of The Fiji Times for September 25. The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), which manages 91 percent of Fiji’s land on behalf of 7,747 iTaukei landowning units leased to over 53,000 tenants, has received approval to establish a commercial branch aimed at maximizing economic benefits for its landowners.
In the sports sector, Waisea Nayacalevu, captain of the Flying Fijians for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has called for substantial reforms within the Fiji Rugby Union. He made these appeals on social media, alongside teammates Levani Botia and Semi Radradra, addressing issues such as unpaid contracts and unmet commitments towards coaches and officials.
In related news, road safety concerns are being highlighted again following a tragic accident that resulted in the death of a 21-year-old man on Kings Rd at Naviyago, Lautoka, on Saturday morning. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitieli Divuana reported that the victim was one of three passengers in a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old man who allegedly lost control, leading to the vehicle crashing into the railings and landing in a river. The victim, along with the other passengers, was transported to Lautoka Aspen Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. This incident raises the road death toll to 41, a decrease from 63 at the same time last year.
Minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services Ro Filipe Tuisawau informed Parliament that from January to July 2024, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and police issued a total of 182,615 traffic infringement notices (TINs) for a variety of offenses, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety. Despite a reduction in fatalities compared to the prior year, each accident significantly impacts families and communities. The recent loss emphasizes the need for enhanced awareness and adherence to safety practices on the roads.
The government and law enforcement agencies are expected to bolster educational campaigns promoting safe driving, which includes the use of seat belts, discouragement of speeding, and reduction of distractions while driving. Advocating for a cultural shift towards road safety remains critical in mitigating the occurrence of accidents. Despite continuous discussions and campaigns surrounding safe driving practices, the challenge persists in fostering a safer driving environment for everyone.