The lead story in The Fiji Times for Tuesday, October 1, focuses on a troubling trend in Fijian politics. Parliament has been dubbed a “Banana Parliament” by Mary Chapman, a former long-serving secretary general. Chapman expressed her disappointment with the use of unacceptable language among members, highlighting a recent incident where a Cabinet Minister accused an Opposition MP of being a “murderer,” to which the MP retaliated by calling the minister a “chor.” Chapman noted that such conduct was not tolerated during her tenure and was typically addressed by the Speaker.
In other news, the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called for the Police Force to activate its tourism unit in Nadi following complaints from tourists about harassment in the town. The chamber’s concern arose from numerous negative social media posts from tourists who encountered unsatisfactory experiences. Dr. Ram Raju, chamber president, remarked that these posts reflect poorly on Nadi’s reputation as a tourist destination.
Tourists have found filing police complaints to be inconvenient, often taking longer than their stay in Fiji. The chamber emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to prevent such incidents in the future. Engaging with police through increased beat patrols is a crucial step in this process.
The chamber plans to collaborate with the police to develop solutions, suggesting that awareness campaigns should involve local communities and stakeholders. This collective effort is vital for protecting the tourism industry, which is acknowledged for its substantial positive impact on various sectors and the domestic economy.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Viliame Gavoka announced in August that Fiji is on track to welcome a million visitors in the current year. This achievement would require an increase in accommodation, promising employment opportunities, and economic growth.
To realize this goal, it is essential to have effective processes in place, engaging all relevant stakeholders to ensure visitors have enjoyable stays and encourage them to return. The chamber’s appeal is not merely focused on addressing complaints, but emphasizes the need to enhance the safety and enjoyment of the tourist experience in Nadi. Through collaboration, Nadi can become a prominent destination that attracts visitors globally.