Fiji is often perceived as a stunning tropical paradise, attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches and friendly faces. However, beneath this façade lies a nation grappling with significant societal challenges. Lailanie Burnes, a former captain of the Fijiana rugby team and a passionate advocate for change, has decided to step into the political arena to address these pressing issues as a candidate in the upcoming general election.
Lailanie, motivated by her deep concern for the struggles faced by Fijians, highlights alarming statistics that paint a grim picture: non-communicable diseases (NCDs) claim the lives of 80% of Fijians prematurely, youth suicide ranks among the leading causes of death, and the healthcare system is under severe strain. This somber reality fuels her ambition to campaign for a better Fiji, where health, crime, and opportunities in sports become legislative priorities.
Her vision for change involves a multi-faceted approach. First and foremost, health care must be improved, focusing on preventive measures and better access to services as the current life expectancy is significantly lower than that of neighboring countries. Lailanie stresses that understanding health as a matter of life and death is crucial. She advocates for a national education campaign promoting healthy lifestyles and diet, aiming to combat the epidemic of NCDs head-on.
In addition to health, Lailanie views the rising crime rate, largely fueled by drug abuse, as a critical issue needing effective law enforcement and rehabilitation initiatives. She passionately believes that addressing the root causes of drug abuse—such as poverty and social alienation—is essential to improve the quality of life for all Fijians.
Her former athletic career inspires her commitment to sports as well. Lailanie recognizes how sports participation can positively influence youth development and community cohesion, envisioning improved sports infrastructure and training opportunities for aspiring athletes in Fiji.
With a keen awareness of the challenges women face in Fiji’s predominantly male political landscape, Lailanie draws attention to the broader need for inclusive leadership that respects and represents the diverse voices of Fiji’s population. She encourages women to aspire to leadership roles, reflecting on her journey and resilience in the face of public scrutiny and personal challenges.
As the 2026 election approaches, Lailanie Burnes symbolizes a hopeful wave of change, encouraging Fijians to become engaged in the political process. She believes that together, the people of Fiji can create a brighter and healthier future, uniting toward the goal of better governance and quality of life.
This call to action resonates strongly in light of Fiji’s pressing issues but is supported by initiatives aimed at empowering young female leaders, paving the way for increased representation in political roles. The future holds promise as new leaders like Lailanie emerge, ready to make impactful changes for the nation.
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