Playing tier one nations!
Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne believes it is beneficial to play tier one nations. After a 21-12 victory over Georgia, Fiji is now preparing to face the All Blacks in San Diego next week. The All Blacks will have just completed a two-match series against England. The Flying Fijians, ranked 10th globally, are coming off a quarterfinal spot at the RWC, their best finish since 2007. The team also secured a victory against the Wallabies. Team unity is strong, and this should fuel their preparations against the All Blacks. With no major injuries, the team is expected to be ready for the challenge. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Levuka market
Despite the completion of the new Levuka market in January this year, it remains unused and resembles a ‘white elephant.’ Market vendors from various villages around Ovalau and even from the Lomaiviti islands endure harsh conditions under makeshift canopies, exposed to the elements. Whenever it rains, the conditions are deplorable, affecting vendors who still pay market fees. If the Local Government Minister and the PM need to hear more, they can contact me through The Fiji Times office. Anthony Sahai Levuka, Ovalau
Represent voters
Elected officials should remember how they got into power and stay independent to represent their voters. Supporting the Prime Minister should not be a strategy to secure a government post. Those advocating for pay raises are known to the public, and such actions might not yield votes in the next election. I argue that Parliament should be dissolved, and a fresh election held to truly reflect the voters’ stance. Tomasi Boginiso Liverpool, NSW, Australia
Ghost town
A recent picture and story in your publication about Rafah in Gaza, which has become a ghost town, serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of war. The people there, who voted Hamas into power, now face poverty, homelessness, and dire living conditions. This serves as a stark reminder for us in Fiji to love and forgive one another, following the teachings of Christ to maintain peace. Waisea Navuruvuru Nasoso, Nadi Airport
Grow up!
In our ‘new-found democracy’ in Fiji under the Coalition Government, we are free to express our views without fear. Offshore criticisms, however, sometimes reveal the critic’s weaknesses. This is evident in the sarcastic remarks of an Australia-based critic. My message to Jan Nissar is clear: “Grow up. Be a better person.” Ronnie Chang Martintar, Nadi
Profit margins
The Minister for Trade and SME recently highlighted the need to address excessive profit margins, with FCCC working on related research. For effective results, the research should compare profit margins by industry with other countries, like Australia and New Zealand, considering different environments. This approach is crucial to controlling inflation. Jackson Mar Qanville Estate, Nasoso, Nadi
African tulips
The Minister of Forests recently received a $2.5 million allocation for ‘forest and ecosystem restoration.’ I propose that $500k be allocated to eradicating African Tulip trees from our forests using incentive payments to local youths in affected areas. This would eliminate pests and financially assist the unemployed. Daniel Fatiaki Suva
Dirty game
The statement “politics is a dirty game” appears to be true, especially after nine members of the former FijiFirst party began supporting the Government. Many voters who supported these members might feel deceived. I am confident that voters will reconsider their choices in the next election. Geoffrey Chand Lautoka